Sankok warns corruption has become “contagious cancer” in Kenya

East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) member David Sankok has accused Kenya’s justice system, political leaders, and members of the public of fueling corruption, saying weak punishment and public acceptance of illicit money have allowed graft to thrive across the country.

Speaking on Radio Generation on Monday, he said corruption continues to grow because penalties imposed on offenders are too lenient compared to the amount of public funds stolen, weakening deterrence.

“The reason why cases may be decided in one way or the other is because you corrupt Sh900 billion, and then you go to court, they fine you Sh1 billion,” he said, adding that such outcomes leave huge illicit gains intact.

He said corruption has become deeply rooted in society, arguing that citizens also contribute to the problem by accepting money from politicians during campaigns and political events.

“Kenyans themselves are facilitators of corruption,” he said, adding, “if you receive money from a politician, you have received corrupt money. You no longer have moral authority to complain.”

Sankok also questioned the rise of political donations and empowerment initiatives, saying it is difficult to explain how public officials are able to distribute large amounts of money within short periods.

“Where one individual who may be a member of parliament, donating a total of sh30 million in a month,” he said, raising concern about the source of such funds and their impact on public confidence.

He described corruption as a “cancer that is now contagious,” warning that it has moved beyond leadership and is now affecting wider society and public institutions.

“Corruption in this country is a cancer that is now contagious,” he said, insisting that the problem has become widespread across different levels of society.

He further said members of the public help sustain corruption networks by accepting questionable benefits, which weakens the demand for accountability and reform.

“Kenyans themselves are facilitators of corruption,” he reiterated, urging a change in both leadership behaviour and public attitudes.

Sankok also faulted the justice system, arguing that reduced penalties allow offenders to retain large portions of stolen money even after prosecution, weakening the fight against graft.

He said this situation encourages repeat offences and undermines efforts to recover public resources and deter future corruption cases.

He warned that unless stronger enforcement is put in place and society takes responsibility, corruption will continue draining public funds and slowing development across the country.