Corrupt minister permanently banned from travelling to US
America has started implementing its tough rules on corruption by slapping a permanent travel ban on an unnamed Cabinet Minister.
The stern message delivered by US Ambassador to Kenya Michael Ranneberger announced the visa order warned: "Those engaged in corruption must be held accountable. This proclamation is only one tool at our disposal."
Citing the US Presidential Proclamation 7750, the Government reserves the right to suspend entry into the US of any non-American "engaged in or benefiting from official corruption."
Speculation zeroed-in on two officials recently linked to scandals in their ministries as callers searched for the identity of the culprit.
"We want to see decisive and bold action on corruption to restore credibility of Government," Ranneberger said.
The move appeared to be the implementation of part of President Barack Obamas inauguration speech warning: "...to those who cling to power through corruption and deceit and the silencing of dissent, know that you are on the wrong side of history."
13th casualty
The official becomes the 13th casualty of a visa ban slapped by the US embassy permanently barring them from setting foot in America.
A similar ban will be extended to his family and relatives, as the embassy starts cracking the whip on what was termed intolerable corruption and abetting impunity.
US Ambassador Michael Ranneberger addresses journalists at his residence in Nairobi, on Tuesday. He announced a Visa ban on a Cabinet minister for involvement in corruption.
Worse still, the European Union may invoke the same visa rules on corrupt Government officers as a deterrent to corruption and impunity.
"I cannot name the official because the US laws do not permit that. It is standard practice all over the World to protect the privacy of individuals," Ranneberger said.
The officer is accused of abetting official corruption.
His case was decided after comprehensive investigation linking him to corruption and impunity.
Standing by Kenyans
"The US is keen on reform agenda and the action demonstrates its commitment to stand by the side of Kenyan people to end culture of impunity."
Yesterday, several Cabinet Ministers and senior Government officials called seeking information on the identity of the official.
"Visa bans have worked before. During the violence period, the visa threat and ban slapped on individuals prompted hardliners to call the embassy proposing peace formulas," Ranneberger said.
"The US has added another name to the list of those permanently barred ineligible to enter US due to engagement in official corruption," the envoy announced.
The visa ban coincides with reports of massive corruption within the maize and oil sectors.
Last week, Transparency International ranked Kenya one of the most corrupt countries in the world comparing it to the least scoring nations.
However, the ambassador denied there was a link between the maize scandal and hurdles faced by importers of US maize into the country.
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