Kenya Roundup: Ruto corruption purge, Haiti deployment, renewable energy
Five CEOs, 67 police officers suspended
President Ruto has relieved 67 police officers and five state agency CEOs from their respective roles temporarily following recent allegations of their involvement in corruption and other related activities. This forms part of Ruto’s plan to reduce corruption in Kenya’s public sector, The Nation reported. State House spokesperson said, “Chief of Staff and Head of Public Service Felix Koskei has directed the suspension of six chief executive officers for alleged involvement in corruption and procurement irregularities within their respective institutions. He has additionally directed the suspension of 67 police officers and an accountant at the Kenya Rural Roads Authority (KeRRA).”
Opposition doubts Ruto’s oil deal
Opposition leader Raila Odinga has described an oil deal arrangement between the Ruto-led government and some Gulf companies as a grand scam that has contributed to oil price inflation. While calling on the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission to investigate, he further challenged the president to publish the said agreement between Kenya and Saudi Arabia, The Nation reported.
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Kenya tops African countries in renewable energy
Kenya topped the list of African countries and ranked 46th globally in a recent report issued by the World Economic Forum (WEF). With a global score of 57.8%, the country is described as one with a desirable transition to renewable energy. The founder and director of Power Shift Africa, Mohamed Adow said, "By harnessing our abundant renewable resources and attracting the necessary investments, we can power our development, address historical challenges, and lead the world in transitioning to 100 percent renewable energy," he is quoted by The Star.
Police officers to get 40% salary increase
President William Ruto has ordered a 40% salary increment for police service personnel, prison officers, and national youth officers over the next three years. According to Ruto, this is to enhance the living standard of service men and also motivate them to do better in their respective roles, KBC reported. “The review of the terms and conditions of service for our men and women in uniform will enhance their morale and transform our security. It will increase our capacity to protect Kenyans, their belonging, their freedom and their interests the appropriate environment for investments and enterprises to grow and thrive,” Ruto said in an address at the State House.
Parliament approves deployment of officers to Haiti
Kenya’s National Assembly has approved the deployment of 1000 police service personnel to Haiti to lead the UN’s efforts to curb the rising cases of gang-related violence and insecurity in the country. Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Gladys Boss, in the face of opposition against the initiative said the deployment would meet the country’s constitutional requirement on the matter, according to a report by Reuters. The mission led by the Kenyan security forces would contribute to rebuilding Haiti's national security and political scene, KBC reported.
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