Ruto Orders 23 Govt Employees Fired & Taken To Court

President William Ruto on Wednesday, October 11 ordered the immediate firing of 23 Kenya Forest Service (KFS) officials over corruption allegations.

Speaking during the pass-out of KFS rangers recruits in Gilgil, Nakuru County, the Head of State accused the officers of engaging in corrupt acts leading to the destruction of forests across the country.

He also ordered that the officials be taken to court to answer for their crimes.

"Through collaboration with the Ministry involved and KFS, it was found that 23 KFS employees were lagging behind in their work, others involved in corruption and others aiding in the destruction of forests in Kenya," Ruto disclosed.

"I have instructed KFS that all those who have been found engaging in corruption or destroying our forests should be fired and taken to court."

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) was also directed to expedite its investigations on the 23 and other officers accused of corrupt dealings at the agency.

President Ruto further declared that the Ministry of Environment under CS Soipan Tuya should carry out reforms in the agency to ensure that those sabotaging environmental conservation and climate change efforts in the country are dealt with.

"From tomorrow, I don't want them in government payroll. These are people who are saboteurs and who are encouraging the destruction of the environment," he said.

"We are going to take all necessary steps to protect our environment and ensure that good officers have an opportunity to serve our country with integrity." 

The President also warned that he would deal with companies and individuals who were planning on making profits from illegal logging.