Devolution and the Mutation of Corruption in Kenya

The creation of the devolved system of governance in Kenya was meant to bring the services as well as resources closer to the people. This is because there were regions that had been historically marginalized since independence by successive governments. Although devolution was meant to improve the quality of lives of citizens, the evolution of corruption at counties poses a serious challenge. The March 2013 elections ushered in forty-seven (47) County governments hence distributing corruption across the country. High-level corruption appears to have undergone mutation from the national government to counties, as the devolved governments took charge of public services. Corruption is the single greatest obstacle to economic and social development. Corruption undermines development and distorts rule of law by promoting impunity. It also weakens institutional foundations which economic growth depends on