The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has issued a stern warning to state and public officers to comply with the newly enacted Conflict of Interest Act, 2025, which officially came into force on August 19.
The Commission cautioned that the new law introduces stiffer penalties for violations relating to the declaration of income, assets and liabilities (DIALs), as well as the management of conflicts of interest. Under the Act, offenders risk a fine of up to Sh4 million, imprisonment of up to 10 years, or both.
“In addition, a mandatory fine will be imposed equal to two times the amount of benefit gained or loss incurred from the contravention. For corporate bodies, the fine shall not exceed Sh10 million,” EACC said in a statement on Tuesday.
The law, signed by President William Ruto on July 30, repeals the Public Officer Ethics Act of 2003, consolidating and strengthening provisions on conflict of interest. It criminalises violations, enhances penalties, and introduces a more structured system for managing DIALs, including verification processes and the forfeiture of undeclared or unexplained assets.
To promote transparency and accountability, the Act requires public officers to declare potential conflicts of interest arising from private engagements that may compromise their public duties. It further prohibits them from trading with their employers or holding stakes in entities that contract with or benefit from public institutions.
Officers will now be required to file DIALs every two years, within 30 days of joining public service, and again within 30 days of leaving. Responsible commissions will oversee verification of these declarations to curb non-compliance.
EACC hailed the new law as a “major milestone in the fight against corruption and unethical practices,” pledging to create public awareness, build capacity, and support reporting entities in enforcement.
During the signing ceremony at State House, President Ruto underscored that the Act is central to his administration’s anti-corruption agenda. “This law ensures public resources are used solely for their intended purposes, free from abuse by those entrusted with public office,” he stated.
The Commission has urged all officers to familiarise themselves with the new provisions and ensure full compliance.
