This archive report was first published on 28 June 2020.
Published on June 28, 2020, a historic ruling by Chief Magistrate Elizabeth Juma has set a precedent in the fight against corruption.
The ruling commits Sirisia MP John Waluke and businesswoman Grace Wakhungu to either 39 years' imprisonment or a fine totaling Sh2 billion for defrauding the National Cereals and Produce Board.
Corruption and pilferage must be made painful, and this ruling serves as a deterrent to fraudsters who attempt to steal from the state.
What makes this ruling remarkable is that it has been determined within two years, a record of sorts, as ordinarily such cases take inordinately longer.
Corruption remains the single greatest threat to the nation, with billions stolen from the state, rendering it unable to serve the public.
When schools go without teachers or instructional materials, hospitals are bereft of medicines and other provisions, or roads are left in tatters, it is not for lack of cash.
The ruling has restored the public's faith in the Judiciary and rule of law.
We challenge the investigative and prosecuting agencies to revive all pending cases and push for their logical settlement.
