CS Geoffrey Ruku Calls for Arrest of Corrupt Officials, Vows No Sacred Cows in War Against Graft

Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku has issued a stern call to the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) to move swiftly and arrest all public officers implicated in recent corruption reports, affirming the government's zero-tolerance policy on graft.

Speaking during a public engagement at Kirewe Grounds in Matuga Constituency, Kwale County, CS Ruku emphasized that the government, under President William Ruto, would no longer shield corrupt individuals, regardless of their office or political connections. He said the era of impunity was over and the time had come for accountability in public service.

“I am calling on the EACC to act decisively and arrest all those named in the reports. We cannot continue protecting corrupt public servants,” Ruku stated firmly, drawing applause from the crowd. “The President has made it clear: integrity must prevail, and Kenya must be free of corruption.”

Ruku reiterated that the directive to root out graft came straight from the highest level of government. He said the current administration is committed to restoring trust in public institutions and cleansing the public service of officials who misuse their offices for personal gain.

“This is not just talk. It is a directive from the highest level to root out corruption wherever it exists,” he said. “We are no longer in the era where people use their positions to enrich themselves and walk away scot-free. If you are caught, you will face the full force of the law.”

The CS further encouraged citizens to become active participants in the anti-corruption war by reporting dishonest or unethical behavior by public officers. He assured them of protection and said their voices were essential in strengthening transparency and accountability.

“Do not fear reporting corrupt officers. Even if it means calling me directly or forwarding the information to the relevant authorities, speak up,” he urged. “Corruption thrives in silence. When you speak out, you help save millions of shillings that should be building roads, schools, and hospitals.”

During the event, Ruku also addressed pressing national concerns such as the ongoing drought and hunger crisis in Kenya’s arid and semi-arid lands (ASALs). He disclosed that the government had already activated response mechanisms to avert loss of life and mitigate suffering among the most vulnerable populations.

He directed National Government Administrative Officers (NGAOs) to move with urgency in identifying the most affected households to ensure targeted interventions are deployed from the Special Programmes docket.

“The President has established comprehensive intervention frameworks across 23 counties. No Kenyan will die from hunger; the government is fully alert and responsive,” Ruku assured.

In addition to humanitarian efforts, the Cabinet Secretary highlighted several development projects aimed at uplifting local economies and improving the living standards of Kenyans. Chief among them is the Sh4 billion Kwale–Kinangop Road project, which he said will significantly boost trade by improving transport connectivity between the coastal region and central Kenya.

“The Kwale–Kinangop road will not only link regions but also open up opportunities for farmers, traders, and businesses along the corridor. This is how we stimulate inclusive economic growth,” he explained.

On the issue of rural electrification, Ruku committed to expanding the Last Mile connectivity programme to ensure even the most remote parts of the country gain access to electricity. He noted that energy access was a vital enabler of development and promised that the government would leave no Kenyan behind.

“The Last Mile electricity connectivity programme will be scaled up. Every Kenyan has a right to power, and we are working to make sure it reaches every household,” he stated.

Ruku was accompanied by several leaders during the event, including Matuga MP Kassim Tandaza, Kwale Woman Representative Fatuma Masito, Buuri MP Mugambi Rindikiri, and Tharaka MP Gitonga Murugara. The delegation also took time to inspect ongoing government development projects in the area.

The visit underscored the government's commitment to bringing development closer to the people while reinforcing the message that public service must be anchored on integrity and delivery.

As the Ruto administration faces growing public scrutiny over corruption allegations in various departments, Ruku’s remarks appear to signal a renewed push for accountability. Whether the EACC will act on his call remains to be seen, but for now, the message from Kirewe Grounds was clear: the war on corruption is not a bluff.