Uhuru Hails Move By PS

Kenya Times

08 February 2005 Page: 2

Official Opposition Leader Uhuru Kenyatta yesterday lauded the resignation of Ethics and Governance Permanent Secretary John Githongo terming the move as a right test for the Governments commitment in fighting the corruption. The Government, Uhuru said, could no longer hide behind the smokescreen by alleging that investigations for a number of corrupt cases were going on while the vice was still part and parcel of those in power. Uhuru said an ill wind was sweeping through the country and warned the Government that Kenyans would no longer stand and watch the future of the country being destroyed by few individuals. Uhuru who expressed solidarity with Githongos decision to quit and said he understood the pain and anguish the PS had undergone in pursuit for a corruption-free society. “I truly understand where this decision to resign (by Githongo) has come from as there has been a hue and cry over the Governments blatant involvement in corruption,” said Uhuru in a statement Describing Githongo as a man of ideals and values, Uhuru noted that it would have been hard for him to operate within an environment where the “monster” had control and appealed to him to keep on fighting until the vice was eliminated. “He was among the few people who were committed to the cause of really serving the country and not just a clique of power hungry and selfish individuals,” said Uhuru.