Migori County Commissioner (CC), Mr. Kisilu Mutua, has cautioned parents and government officials against engaging in corruption during police recruitment exercises, saying the vice denies qualified candidates an opportunity to join the service on merit.
Speaking during Madaraka Day celebrations at Masaba Ward in Kuria West Sub-county, Mutua condemned the growing trend of parents paying large sums of money to influence the recruitment process.
The County Commissioner revealed that some parents reportedly part with up to Sh1 million to individuals claiming they can secure police jobs for their children, only to end up disappointed when the promises fail to materialize.
He urged parents to allow the recruitment process to proceed fairly and transparently without offering bribes, emphasizing that those who pay money to secure opportunities are equally responsible for sustaining corruption.
“You are the ones motivating these people. You bring money to them and plan with them. Let us take our children to the recruitment field without any money and see whether they will not be selected on merit,” he said.
Mutua further stressed that corruption must be tackled firmly if public institutions are to regain public confidence and deliver services effectively.
“You must fight corruption radically. For instance, when you visit Botswana, you will see how its leadership deals with corruption. You cannot fight corruption as a gentleman,” he remarked.
The commissioner warned that any chief or public officer found to have obtained a position through bribery would face immediate disciplinary action, including removal from office.
He further stated that he would not wait for instructions from higher authorities before taking action against corrupt individuals within the county administration.
“I am prepared to confront all forms and sources of corruption head-on and take decisive action against those involved,” he said.
Mr. Mutua also took the opportunity to criticize contractors and individuals entrusted with public resources who fail to deliver quality services after receiving payment, noting that such practices undermine government development efforts and deny citizens value for money.
He called on residents to uphold integrity, accountability, and responsibility in their respective roles, saying collective efforts were necessary to eliminate corruption and promote sustainable development.
The County Commissioner reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring transparency and fairness in public recruitment processes, urging young people seeking employment opportunities to rely on their qualifications and abilities rather than illegal shortcuts.
By Sharon Kidiga and Centrine Achieng
