Ruto’s Anti-Corruption Crackdown Wins Praise as Activist Warns Against Political Incitement

A prominent Eldoret-based human rights activist has thrown his weight behind the government’s latest anti-corruption drive in the energy sector, describing it as a bold and necessary step to safeguard the country’s economic future.

Speaking during a press briefing, Kipkorir Ngetich, representing the Centre for Human Rights and Democracy, lauded the administration of President William Ruto for what he termed as “decisive and timely intervention” in addressing alleged fraud within a critical sector of the economy.

Ngetich said the unfolding investigations and subsequent arrests signal a strong commitment by the government to uphold the rule of law, adding that such actions should be viewed as a demonstration of institutional integrity rather than political maneuvering.

“Before any arrest is made, there must be an ongoing investigation that leads to the identification of suspects. This shows that due process is being followed and that Kenya remains anchored on constitutionalism,” he said.

He emphasized that corruption continues to pose a serious threat not only to governance but also to the realization of social and economic rights for millions of Kenyans. According to him, failure to confront graft decisively could reverse development gains and weaken public trust in institutions.

The activist argued that the latest crackdown points to the existence of early warning systems within government structures, suggesting that intelligence and investigative agencies acted promptly after detecting irregularities that eventually reached the highest levels of leadership.

“This is what responsible governance looks like—early detection, swift investigation, and firm action,” Ngetich noted, adding that President Ruto had demonstrated leadership by “refusing to sit on the fence” in the fight against corruption.

He also took time to commend security and investigative agencies, including the National Intelligence Service (NIS) and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), for what he described as diligent groundwork that led to the arrests. He said such institutions should be strengthened and supported to operate independently and effectively.

However, Ngetich sharply criticized former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, accusing him of spreading what he called “misleading and inciteful claims” regarding the government’s role in the alleged corruption.

“There is no logical basis for claims that a sitting president would sanction corruption for personal gain. Such assertions are not only misleading but risk inciting the public and undermining confidence in state institutions,” he said.

He warned that Kenya is governed by the rule of law and that leaders must exercise responsibility in their public statements, particularly on matters of national importance.

Ngetich further criticized sections of the opposition, including leaders allied to Kalonzo Musyoka, accusing them of engaging in sustained campaigns aimed at discrediting the government rather than offering constructive alternatives.

He called on political actors to “shape up or step aside,” urging them to prioritize national unity and the fight against corruption over partisan interests.

At the same time, the activist urged Kenyans to rally behind the government’s anti-graft efforts, noting that corruption is a global challenge that requires collective action. He lamented that while corruption exists worldwide, African governments often face disproportionate scrutiny even when taking corrective measures.

“Every patriotic Kenyan should support efforts to root out corruption. This is not about politics—it is about protecting the country’s future,” he said.

Looking ahead, Ngetich called on the National Assembly to enact stronger laws to protect whistleblowers and incentivize investigative officers who risk their lives to expose corruption networks. He said such measures would enhance accountability and encourage more citizens to come forward with information.

He also urged authorities to take firm action against individuals spreading rumors, hate speech, and incitement, warning that such behavior could destabilize the country if left unchecked.

Despite the political tensions surrounding the issue, Ngetich maintained that the government must remain focused and undeterred in its anti-corruption agenda.

“The president must continue leading from the front. Kenya cannot afford to lose this fight,” he said.

His remarks come amid heightened political debate over corruption allegations in the energy sector, with both government and opposition figures trading accusations in recent days.