Eliud Wabukala has today been officially sworn in as the new Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission chairman at Supreme Court today Wabukala took charge at the Integrity Center after taking the oath office.
The former head of the Anglican Church in Kenya was sworn in by Judiciary Chief Registrar Anne Amadi in a brief ceremony witnessed by Chief Justice David Maraga.
After being sworn in, Wabukala called for cooperation from relevant institutions in the fight against corruption. Wabukala promised to lead the war against corruption during his swearing-in as EACC chairperson on Monday.
While asking all leaders to be accountable and honest in their service to the people, the former ACK Archbishop said all those found guilty of corruption will face the law. “I call upon Kenyans to join us in the war against graft, not be part of the problem,” he said.
“It will take time but we will come out victorious. Our leaders, such as governors and parastatal heads, will have to be accountable for their departments and areas of service because we all have to be responsible.”
The new anti-graft boss also called for an end to greed saying it is the key root of corruption.
“Fighting corruption should not be left entirely to the commission. Cabinet secretaries, principal secretaries, executive officers, governors and accounting officers must take responsibility and should also be held answerable for what happens in their ministries, departments and counties,” he said.
Justice Maraga told Wabukala he was taking over an office perceived to be cursed but exuded confidence he will triumph. “You are up to the challenge and am sure you will discharge your duties. Corruption in this country has reached endemic proportions. This dragon must be dealt with otherwise the economy will be ruined,” he said.
The function at the Supreme Court was also attended by Attorney-General Githu Muigai. Wabukala’s coming sets stage for another round of shenanigans at EACC with his predecessors having left the institution unceremoniously in what is regarded as career graveyard job.
Last year, Philip Kinisu exited shortly after taking over from Mumo Matemu. Others include Patrick Lumumba, Justice Aron Ringera and former Kilome MP Harun Mwau.
