Ruto returns conflict of Interest Bill to Parliament

President William Ruto has returned the Conflict of Interest Bill, 2023, to Parliament for further consideration.

Speaking on Thursday at State House, Nairobi, Ruto said he expects both the National Assembly and the Senate to help pass a law that will curb corruption driven by conflict of interest among public officials.

"Both houses need to exercise leadership in making sure to get a law that will manage and eliminate corruption that comes as a result of conflict of interest of public officials who serve for their own interest," he said.

The bill introduces strict requirements for public officials to declare potential conflicts and imposes penalties for violations.

However, recent changes made by Parliament have raised concerns.

These amendments gave room for Cabinet Secretaries, Principal Secretaries, governors, MPs, and heads of state corporations to do business with government entities.

Parliament also softened rules requiring regular wealth declarations, including details of spouses and close relatives.

The original proposal aimed to curb unexplained wealth and promote accountability.

The President had earlier signaled he would reject the bill due to these alterations, which he believes reduce the authority of the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) and weaken anti-graft efforts.

Ruto has spoken firmly on the bill since last year.

During his State of the Nation address on November 21, 2024, he blamed Parliament for delaying the legislation.

"It is unacceptable for the Houses of Parliament to deny the nation a much-needed instrument in the war on corruption by continuing to sabotage the passage of the Conflict of Interest Bill," he said.

"I implore you to stop dragging your feet on this bill unless, my friends, there is a conflict of interest in the passing of the conflict of interest legislation."

In March, during an event to hand over recovered assets by the EACC, Ruto said he had already discussed with parliamentary leaders the need to pass the bill.

The proposed law aims to create a clear boundary between public duty and private gain.

It seeks to build public trust in institutions, end favoritism, and seal gaps that public officials have used to enrich themselves.

MPs will now need a two-thirds majority to override the President’s rejection of the bill,