Narok Senator Ledama Ole Kina has called on Parliament to tighten conflict-of-interest laws, arguing that legal loopholes have enabled Cabinet Secretaries (CSs) and County Governors to amass wealth through abuse of public office.
The senator claimed that some senior government officials exploit their control over regulations, procurement systems, and public budgets to benefit themselves, their relatives, proxies, and close associates.
“A Cabinet Secretary or a Governor does not simply implement policy. They control the regulations and budgets that decide who eats and who starves in entire sectors and counties,” Ole Kina said.
He argued that the rapid accumulation of wealth by some public officials shortly after assuming office is driven by power rather than merit.
“Look at how extreme wealth is manufactured the moment someone is appointed Cabinet Secretary or elected County Governor. It is not talent. It is not hard work. It is pure, raw power,” he stated.
Ole Kina also criticized the enforcement of Kenya’s Conflict of Interest Act, saying it has failed to curb high-level corruption. According to him, large-scale graft is concentrated within the national and county executives, where key decisions on regulations, contracts, and public spending are made.
The senator further questioned the sudden rise in wealth among some politicians and individuals close to power, pointing to the increasing number of privately owned helicopters as an issue that deserves greater public scrutiny.
He urged Parliament to enact and strictly enforce stronger safeguards against abuse of office, warning that failure to seal existing loopholes would allow a politically connected few to continue enriching themselves at the expense of ordinary Kenyans.
