Ex-CITAM presiding Bishop David Oginde on Tuesday, May 9, took oath of office as the new Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) chairperson.
Chief Justice Martha Koome presided over the ceremony at the Supreme Court of Kenya where other leaders also witnessed the event.
Oginde who took over from retired Anglican Archbishop Eliud Wabukala who had been EACC boss for the past six years, immediately unveiled his plans to tackle corruption in the country.
“Let me begin by expressing my gratitude to many individuals and groups who have played key roles in bringing this journey to this critical point.
“First is to express my deepest gratitude to President William Ruto for believing that I could make a contribution towards tackling one of the greatest challenges facing this country, and therefore entrusting me with the position of Chairperson of the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission,” Oginde stated.
In the short speech, Bishop Oginde acknowledged that corruption is Kenya’s worst enemy that is deeply rooted, widespread, and flies to the high heavens.
“Corruption continues to adversely impact every aspect of public life, especially the most vulnerable in the society. There is no doubt that this is the one thing that we must work at taming, if not eradicating, if this country is to join the League of developed nations,” Oginde assured.
While stating his commitment to end the wanton theft of public funds by unscrupulous individuals, Dr Oginde assured the Country of his personal commitment to provide leadership in the formulation of effective anti-corruption strategies and promotion of ethics, integrity and good governance.
Oginde’s Anti-corruption Strategies
The seemingly ambitious Architect drew seven strategies that he believed would re-construct an almost perfect society devoid or with limited apatite for stolen things.
Review of Past Undertakings: Dr Oginde pledged to take stock of the current efforts to inform future interventions by his team at EACC.
Prevention Mechanics:Â The former Bishop stated that he will institute the development of strategies that will focus on strengthening corruption prevention ideals in order to address the root causes of the vice.
Strategic Partners:Â He further pledged to strike deals with local and international players so that EACC may have a holistic approach to fighting graft.
New Legal Regime: Oginde revealed that he will be seeking support in strengthening of the legal framework for the effective fight against corruption and recovery of corruptly acquired assets.
Institutional Development:Â The Architect stated that he will build an institutional support system with EACC to ensure adequate capacity to fight corruption.
Multi-sectoral Approach:Â He stated that EACC will forge understandings with both public and private sector institutions to put in place effective measures to prevent corruption and unethical conduct.
Civic Education:Â Dr Oginde stated that he will spearhead nationwide anti-corruption campaigns to enlist the support of all Kenyans to reduce the incidences of corruption.
