President Uhuru Kenyatta’s war on corruption has received a major boost from Britain following the signing of an agreement repatriate all proceeds of crime stashed away in all its jurisdictions.
The agreement, which was signed at state house during British Prime Minister Theresa May’s visit will see the return of assets from corruption and proceeds of crime hidden in off-shore accounts by corrupt individuals.
This is such a great move because according to Transparency International UK, the UK is currently a safe haven for corrupt individuals looking launder the proceeds of their illicit wealth, enjoy a luxury lifestyle and cleanse their reputations.
“The UK economy sees trillions of pounds flow through it every single year. Inevitably some of this money is corrupt wealth – stolen public funds and bribes – which are given a seal of approval by passing through the UK.” a statement from Transparency International reads in part.
Britain is now the third country to partner with Kenya in its war on corruption after Switzerland and Jersey Island.
President Kenyatta has lauded the British government for its commitment to the fight against graft
“There is no turning back on the war on corruption and economic crimes adding that the sustained drive was part of his legacy in addition to the Big 4 agenda. Fighting corruption is an important aspect of my legacy programme, together with the unity of the country and attainment of the Big Four centred around investment in housing, manufacturing, food security and universal health,” said the President adding that depriving people the proceeds of their crimes is one major deterrent against this vice, and we are determined to make it painful, unrewarding and expensive to get involved in corruption.
On her part, Prime Minister May said that besides repatriation of the proceeds of corruption, her government will also support efforts to prosecute and conclude all major corruption cases in the country.
“We welcome your commitment and drive to fight corruption. We stand with you. Whatever is held in the UK will be returned to build Kenya,” she said.
Other than corruption, the two countries have also signed an agreement to renew security pact between them.
The agreement will enable Kenya to receive critical support for border control and aviation security through training programmes and equipment for border, airline and immigration staff.
Other areas of co-operation under the agreement include countering violent extremism, terrorism and trans-national crime through sharing of information and profiling of major masterminds and beneficiaries of these crimes.
On Kenya’s desire to secure a non-permanent seat at the UN Security Council, the British PM said her country will work with Kenya to ensure it achieves its intended goals.
On regional security and peace, the British Prime Minister lauded Kenya’s efforts to stabilize Somalia and the signing of a peace deal in South Sudan under AMISOM and IGAD respectively.
Prime Minister May said that through security cooperation between the two countries Britain has managed to put behind bars terrorists and child traffickers adding that Britain will soon announce a new aid package in support of AMISOM forces in Somalia.
