The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has advised all new public servants to declare their wealth within thirty days of taking office.
According to Sections 26 and 27 of the Public Officer Ethics Act, the commission stated on Tuesday that the wealth declaration is a requirement for all those seeking public office.
Failure to declare one’s wealth or making a false declaration is a criminal offense that can result in imprisonment and hefty fines.
Section 32 of the Public Officer Ethics Act states, “A person who fails to submit a declaration or clarification required, or makes a false declaration, is guilty of an offence and is liable, on conviction, to a fine not exceeding KES. 1 million, or up to one-year imprisonment, or both.”
According to the Public Service Commission, an initial duly completed declaration by the public officer must be delivered to the authorized officer within thirty days of becoming a public officer.
The notice comes at a time when many Kenyans are entering public service, particularly those elected for the first time in the August 9 elections.
Every two years, public servants are required by law to disclose their income, bank deposits, and assets such as land, buildings, and vehicles.
The declaration must also include the assets of their spouses and minor children under the age of 18.
