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Corrupt Kenyan leaders to face US sanctions


By: Patel Okumu
Posted: Nov,09-2015 14:08:26


Nairobi, Kenya: President Barack Obama's government has warned Kenya's leaders linked to corruption that they risked facing sanctions believed to include travel bans. US Ambassador Robert Godec in Nairobi said the US Government was offering partnership which would help Kenya stem corruption including ethics training and supporting procurement through oversight for the programmes it was finacing. Godec said corruption has reached crisis levels in Kenya making US take tough stand on unspecified action. The US has previously denied visa to in dividuals named in corruption. "Corruption is undermining economic growth, security and many things the government wants to do. We believe Kenya will overcome it. Steps need to be taken to address the situation. The challenge is to figure out what needs to be done and it all depends on Kenyan leadership and citizens to champion change but we are willing to partner on solutions," he said, He spoke when he announced a Sh65 billion (USD 650 million) support from USAID to help in medical partnership for life saving drugs and equipment. "Obviously we will continue as we have in the past use mechanisms to reign in corruption and to address specific instances where individuals are proved to be involved, we will take actions that are available to us," he said without elaborating specific action. Godec lauded efforts by Presient Uhuru Kenyatta in fighting graft like in the Anglo Leasing cases adding, "most Kenyans and Kenyan organisations are honest and run well. He said at one time Chicago was absolutely corrupt but people took decisive action to end years of graft. We will have extensive oversight. Integrity and efficiency in this program is not just something we hope for; it is something we require -- and we know it is something Kenyans demand as well. We do so because, as we all know, corruption is a crisis in Kenya. As I have said frequently, it is undermining the country's future. Corruption threatens Kenya's economic growth, the provision of government services, and security. It threatens the country's health care system. It must end. And for that to happen, all public programs must live up to the highest standards. Public funds must go to their intended beneficiaries-- in this case patients suffering from life-threatening diseases--and not into the pockets of officials who betray the public trust. The United States' position on this problem is very clear: all allegations of corruption must be investigated; and when evidence is found officials must be prosecuted and, if guilty, sent to prison regardless of their position or wealth. Ending corruption is first a task for leaders, but it is also the responsibility of everyone, all Kenyans. And, as a friend, the United States will do all it can to help, as promised, in the joint commitment issued during President Obama's historic visit.
Source: Standard