Maina Kageni Asks Why Politicians Are Not on Kenya's Corruption List

Maina Kageni, the popular Classic 105 FM radio host, recently ignited a passionate debate on his morning show, "Maina and King'ang'i," following a discussion around a corruption survey in Kenya.

This conversation emerged in the context of public discourse often influenced by reports from bodies like the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) that highlight prevalent corruption in various sectors.

Maina's show focused on a compiled list of professions perceived to be the most involved in corruption, prompting him to raise pertinent questions about the true state of integrity in the nation and, crucially, the notable absence of politicians from this compilation.      

The Professions Under Scrutiny

The list of professions cited as heavily involved in corruption is extensive, leaving the radio host to question, "Who is left?".

ALSO READ: Report: Kenyan Men Are More Corrupt Than Women

It includes a wide array of public and private sector roles, leading Maina to wonder if there is any hope of fighting this "monster".

• Police officers

• KRA officers

• Chiefs

• County inspection officers

• Lawyers

• County revenue officers

• Land surveyors

• Architects

• Doctors and nurses

• Bankers

• Accountants and auditors

• Engineers

• Economists

• Teachers

• University lecturers

• Journalists

“Who is not corrupt in this nation of ours. Who is not corrupt? Because this is total madness,” Kageni added.

The Elephant in the Room: Missing Politicians

Maina Kageni expressed significant surprise and disbelief that politicians were not mentioned on this list of professions perceived to be corrupt.

He repeatedly challenged listeners to identify if politicians were on the list, finding no mention.

This omission sparked a core question: “If you look at this list, just tell me if you can see politicians there. There is no mention of politicians there. How are you not on this list."

Listeners echoed this sentiment, with one caller, Vincent, pointing out, "By the way they've left out politicians".

Another listener, Wilfred Mama, directly stated, "Our parliament is the most corrupt. How can they make laws that prevent corruption from taking place? Not even one mention of politicians. Wow."

Is Kenya "Irredeemably Lost"? Public Weighs In

The discussion quickly turned to the pervasive nature of corruption. Callers and texters shared their observations and experiences. Emmanuel S noted, "corruption is everywhere. We cannot do without it". Jennifer added, "Corruption affects everyone". Kelvin believed that corruption has become "normalized" and "part of us".

One caller admitted to giving a bribe "a month ago" to a chief to "see someone in an office".

A Glimmer of Hope? Or Just More Questions?

The show also touched on the stark contrast with other nations. Maina noted that in the US, it is impossible to even think of bribing a police officer due to high salaries, detailed background checks, and robust systems.

Maina himself proposed that "Corruption should be a treason offense".

He continued to ask: "Who is not corrupt in this country?" and "Do we ever have hope of ever fighting this monster?".