Embu: Governor Cecily Mbarire has warned county staff against engaging in acts of corruption, saying perpetrators should be ready to carry their own cross. She emphasized that her administration will not tolerate corruption as it seeks to enhance efficiency in service delivery and prudent use of public resources. The county boss sounded a warning shot to those who will be found culpable that stern action will be taken against them, including dismissal and prosecution.

According to Kenya News Agency, the fight against corruption has gained momentum following the formation of the Corruption Prevention Committee (CPC) spearheaded by the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC). Speaking during a consultative committee meeting with EACC officials led by Commissioner Col. (Rtd) Alfred Mshimba, Governor Mbarire said every county staff member should be ready to take ownership for whatever action they take at an individual level.

Governor Mbarire urged staff to ensure they render services without seeking bribes, cautioning that the administration will take serious action against such acts by any government officer. She highlighted revenue collection and health as key sectors where corruption thrives and will receive focused attention.

The Governor also announced plans to introduce a hotline number and the establishment of suggestion boxes for reporting incidents of corruption. Commissioner Mshimba underscored the importance of CPCs in decentralizing the fight against graft in all the devolved units, contributing to the broader mission of EACC of preventing corruption.

Commissioner Mshimba mentioned that Embu is the second county after Makueni where they have held consultative meetings to establish CPCs and will continue with the rest to bolster the war on graft.