Kenya, Aug. 14 -- President William Ruto ignited controversy by accusing Members of Parliament (MPs) of demanding bribes from his administration, alleging they seek illicit payments to influence legislation and policies. Speaking at a Nairobi roundtable with private sector leaders, Ruto claimed MPs demand bribes to pass favourable laws, undermining transparency efforts.
The remarks have sparked outrage with people now looking for Ruto to blame MPs for bribes and Kenya MPs' corruption 2025 online, reflecting public frustration with systemic graft.
Ruto's accusations come amid Kenya's ongoing battle with corruption, often dubbed the nation's "biggest industry." He highlighted how rogue MPs collude with deep-pocketed businessmen, sneaking amendments into bills at committee stages to favour specific firms.
"Money is being demanded from the executive, governors, and ministers, especially those appearing before Parliament," Ruto stated, calling for formal engagement channels.
The claims echo sentiments from former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who accused Ruto of bribing MPs with cash and job offers to secure loyalty, though a viral video alleging this was debunked as altered.
Public reaction to X is polarised, with others labelling Ruto's remarks hypocritical, citing his administration's alleged use of bribes to silence dissent, while other netizens supported his call for accountability.
The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC), led by Bishop David Oginde, has faced criticism for failing to address high-profile cases like the Eurobond scandal, fueling doubts about systemic reform.
Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah condemned Ruto's narrative as deflecting from executive failures, urging independent probes into parliamentary corruption.
The controversy follows Gachagua's December 2024 claims that Ruto used teacher recruitment letters to "buy" MP support. Ruto denied these allegations, refuting Gachagua's claim of seeking KSh 10 billion for political loyalty.
The Finance Bill 2024, which sparked protests, was also marred by bribery rumours, with MPs allegedly offered KSh 2 million to vote in favour, though manipulated footage distorted Gachagua's statements. Kenya's history of parliamentary bribery, including a 2018 sugar scandal involving KSh 10,000 toilet bribes, shows the issue's persistence.
Ruto's call for private sector integrity, backed by Kepsa CEO Carole Kariuki, urges businesses to avoid backdoor deals, per Business Daily. However, critics argue his administration's recruitment of opposition MPs, like ODM's John Mbadi, signals political manipulation.
The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has demanded investigations into Ruto's claims, warning that unchecked corruption erodes public trust. With Kenya's debt nearing KSh 10 trillion, the public seeks action beyond rhetoric, as people looking for answers searching "Ruto blames MPs for bribes updates" grow.
As Ruto blames MPs for demanding bribes, the controversy exposes deep-rooted corruption in Kenya's legislature. The EACC's inaction on high-profile cases fuels public distrust, with citizens calling for systemic reforms.
Transparency in parliamentary processes is critical to restoring faith, as Ruto's accusations raise questions about his administration's role. The Ruto blames MPs for demanding bribes narrative has intensified scrutiny on Kenya's governance.
Activists demand independent probes to verify claims, while MPs allied with Ruto face accusations of complicity. The public's frustration shows the urgency of addressing legislative graft.
Ruto's claim that MPs demand bribes highlights a systemic issue, with Kenya's history of parliamentary scandals fueling doubts. The government's push for loyalty, seen in threats to sack dissenting officers, complicates reform efforts.
Public demand for accountability grows as the 2027 elections loom. To conclude, President William Ruto's assertion that he blames MPs for demanding bribes has sparked a national debate on corruption in Kenya's legislature.
The Ruto blames MPs for the bribes controversy, amplified by social media and past scandals, and demands urgent action to restore public trust, as Kenya faces a critical juncture to address systemic graft and ensure transparent governance.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Bana Kenya.