EACC Report Uncovers Deep-Rooted Corruption and Systemic Failures in Kenya Prisons Service

The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has sounded the alarm over widespread corruption and operational failures within the Kenya Prisons Service (KPS), exposing severe risks to inmate welfare, misuse of public funds, and compromised institutional performance.

In a report released Friday in Nairobi, the EACC said it conducted a comprehensive review of KPS structures, policies, and procedures. The audit was carried out in collaboration with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and supported by the European Union under the PLEAD II Programme.

“The fight against corruption is far from over, but we want to assure Kenyans that we, as a commission, will not give up,” said EACC Chairperson David Oginde. “Upholding human dignity is a critical thing.”

Outdated Legal Framework and Poor Oversight

The report criticizes the outdated legal framework governing KPS, noting it does not align with the Constitution or international human rights standards such as the UN’s Mandela Rules. These gaps hinder transparency and accountability.

One of the biggest red flags was the operation of the Prison Enterprise Fund, which handles revenue from prison farms and industries. The fund reportedly functions outside the Public Finance Management Act, making it highly vulnerable to abuse.

Inmate Welfare in Jeopardy

The report paints a grim picture of inmate conditions, revealing that funds meant for prisoner welfare have been diverted to staff functions, medical supplies, and other unrelated expenses. Inmates often lack basic necessities such as mattresses, soap, and blankets.

Health services within prisons are described as severely underfunded, with expired drugs, poorly equipped infirmaries, and a lack of tracking systems for medical supplies. Inmates are also not consistently separated by age, risk level, or type of offense, undermining rehabilitation efforts.

Procurement and Recruitment Malpractices

The audit revealed glaring irregularities in procurement. Items were purchased without official documentation, some at significantly inflated prices, and approvals were issued retroactively.

Recruitment was also flagged, with some new hires reportedly paying bribes, only to be demoted or dismissed later. Cases of payroll tampering to facilitate irregular promotions were also documented.

Other Institutional Challenges

The report highlighted stalled infrastructure projects, the use of buildings lacking occupancy certificates, and personnel being deployed without appointment letters or proper job descriptions.

To address these issues, the EACC has called for urgent reforms, including:

• Automation of financial and operational systems
• Policy reviews to align with modern legal and human rights frameworks
• Stronger internal and external oversight mechanisms

Way Forward

Salome Beacco, Principal Secretary in the State Department for Correctional Services, welcomed the findings and affirmed the government’s commitment to reforms.

“This is the way to go if we are to strengthen institutions and promote reform,” she said.

The EACC warned that without swift action, the Kenya Prisons Service risks continued inefficiency, corruption, and further erosion of public trust.

The full report is expected to serve as a blueprint for future legislative and administrative reforms in Kenya’s correctional sector.

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EACC Report Uncovers Deep-Rooted Corruption and Systemic Failures in Kenya Prisons Service