A civil society organisation has commended President William Ruto for rejecting the controversial Conflict of Interest Bill, hailing the move as a significant step toward reinforcing ethical governance and safeguarding public resources.
In a statement released on Friday, Action for Sustainable Change (AFOSC-Kenya) praised the President’s decision to return the Bill to Parliament, particularly objecting to a contentious clause that would have permitted spouses of public officials to engage in business with the government.
AFOSC-Kenya Executive Director Mohamed Sheikh said the rejected provision posed a grave risk to transparency and accountability, warning it could have opened the floodgates to corruption and preferential treatment.
“This is a powerful statement of leadership and a firm stand for the public good. The Senate’s attempt to dilute the bill would have rolled back years of progress in promoting integrity within public service,” Sheikh stated.
The organisation urged lawmakers to uphold the original spirit of the proposed law by reinforcing measures that promote accountability, equity, and sustainable governance.
“AFOSC stands with every Kenyan demanding a more ethical government. Together, we can build institutions that serve the people—not personal interests,” Sheikh added.
President Ruto sent the Bill back to the National Assembly on Thursday, citing its failure to meet public expectations in the fight against corruption.
“I expect both Houses of Parliament to provide leadership and ensure we pass legislation that will help us manage—and eventually eliminate—corruption. Much of it stems from public officials prioritising their own interests over the people’s,” said the President.
While acknowledging that the Bill broadly addressed the issue of conflict of interest, Ruto emphasized the need for stronger safeguards around transparency and enforcement to fully align with constitutional values of integrity and good governance.
