Matiang’i: Kenya’s corruption crisis is a leadership failure, not a legal one
By David Nthua, October 29, 2025Former Cabinet Secretary for the Interior Ministry, Fred Matiang’i, has said winning the war on corruption is as easy as ABCD.
Speaking to one of the local radio stations on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, Matiang’i said to win the war on corruption, one doesn’t need new laws but strict adherence to existing ones and strong personal integrity.
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Without mentioning names, Matiang’i said Kenya is where it is because those holding positions of influence are the chief thieves.
Leadership by example is key
Matiang’i said that Kenya has enough anti-corruption institutions and legal frameworks to deal with graft, but the problem lies in the failure of leadership.
He stressed that leaders should lead by example rather than preach what they do not practise.
“Every time I’m asked how I’ll fight corruption, I say, we don’t need new laws or institutions; they already exist. What we need is good leadership. You lead by example.
“You can’t tell people to stop what you’re doing yourself. If you’re a thief, you can’t ask others to stop stealing, yet you’re the chief thief. We’re in this mess because some people choose to live outside the law,” he said.
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Toughness with purpose
Matiang’i also addressed perceptions about his leadership style during his time in government, saying that he was only firm because he believed in discipline and fairness.
He added that being decisive and enforcing the law should not be mistaken for authoritarianism.
“People thought I was tough, but I’d ask, what’s so authoritarian about doing what needs to be done? Things don’t just happen on their own,” he said.
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Matiang’i added that if given the opportunity to be President of Kenya, he would lead with the same principles he applied during his time at the Ministry of Interior.
“If given the opportunity to be President of Kenya, I’d do exactly what I did at Jogoo House, lead with discipline and fairness.
“Everyone must do their part. We elect leaders to represent us, speak for us, and act in trust on our behalf,” he stated.
The former CS emphasised that integrity in leadership is the foundation of national progress, urging Kenyans to demand honesty and accountability from those in power.