Dr. Mokua calls for a Moral Awakening at County Integrity Report Launch
By Ms. Teresia Muia
“The fight against corruption must begin within us,” declared Dr. Elias Mokua, SJ, Executive Director of the Loyola Centre for Media and Communication (LCMC), during the launch of the County Integrity, Transparency, and Accountability (CITA) Report on December 10, 2024. Speaking to a gathering of government officials, civil society leaders, and citizens, Dr. Mokua emphasized the pivotal role of conscience in addressing corruption, urging all stakeholders to adopt a values-driven approach to governance.
The event, held in partnership between LCMC and County Governance Watch, showcased findings from a survey conducted across 11 counties in Kenya. The report assessed public awareness and access to county budget information, the functionality of county websites, and the extent of public participation in budget processes. Makueni County led with a 65% score in budget information accessibility, while Marsabit lagged behind at 25%.
Dr. Mokua framed corruption not merely as a legal or policy issue but as a moral and spiritual crisis. “Every act of corruption has a ripple effect,” he noted. “We must ask ourselves: What kind of world are we building for our children? Will it be grounded in justice and stability, or will it collapse under the weight of inequity and instability?” He challenged attendees to awaken their consciences, stressing that silence in the face of wrongdoing enables corruption, while active resistance builds a foundation of integrity and fairness.
The CITA Report evaluated three key areas: public awareness of budget allocations, the functionality of county websites, and citizen participation in the budget-making process. It revealed significant disparities among counties, highlighting the need for enhanced transparency and accessibility to bridge the gaps.
Dr. Mokua’s call to action resonated deeply with the audience, serving as a moral rallying cry for collective action. “Conscience is the ultimate guide. When we need it, we foster a society built on honesty and fairness,” he affirmed. The launch of the CITA Report marked a critical step forward in the pursuit of integrity, transparency, and accountability in Kenya’s governance systems, reflecting a shared commitment to creating a just and equitable future for all.
