IMF Sets Date to Investigate Corrupt Officials in Ruto’s Govt
The IMF is set to investigate the impact of corruption on Kenya’s public finances, with a thorough examination scheduled to commence early next year.
During a visit to Kenya, IMF Deputy Managing Director Nigel Clarke revealed plans to deploy a team for a “governance diagnostic.” Clarke met with top officials, including President William Ruto, Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi, and Central Bank Governor Kamau Thugge, to discuss the initiative.
The diagnostic team will collaborate with various stakeholders to pinpoint governance flaws within Ruto’s administration and recommend actionable reforms to address these challenges. Clarke emphasized that this process aims to chart a reform-oriented roadmap to enhance governance outcomes in Kenya.
Highlighting the IMF’s commitment to governance, Clarke warned that poor governance could severely undermine Kenya’s macroeconomic stability, underscoring the importance of addressing such issues promptly.
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Responding to criticism about the IMF’s role in Kenya, Clarke clarified that the Fund merely advises and does not dictate specific tax measures. He stressed that decisions about revenue collection rest solely with the Kenyan government.
On October 3, Kenya formally requested the IMF’s assistance in assessing corruption and governance. IMF spokesperson Julies Kozac confirmed that the government sought to use these insights to improve public expenditures, enhance competitiveness, stimulate economic growth, and reduce poverty inclusively.
President Ruto’s government has faced growing scrutiny over its handling of corruption. In 2024, Kenya ranked 126th out of 180 countries on Transparency International’s Corruption Perceptions Index, reflecting persistent governance challenges.
Public discontent has also been evident in recent protests against tax hikes, which have increased the cost of essential goods like bread and milk. Demonstrators accused government officials and MPs of corruption, blaming them for mismanaging public funds.
IMF Sets Date to Investigate Corrupt Officials in Ruto’s Govt
