NAIROBI: FORMER Mandera Senator Billow Kerrow has warned that corruption in the country has reached alarming levels, severely undermining public confidence in government institutions.
Speaking during a morning interview with a local radio station on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, Kerrow has noted that this pervasive lack of accountability has created a climate where even well-intentioned government initiatives are met with suspicion by citizens.
“One of the major challenges we face in the country is that the high level of corruption has eroded public trust. As a result, whatever the government does, even if done with good intentions, is met with suspicion,” Billow stated.
The former senator noted that this distrust affects not only development projects but also broader governance policies, making it difficult for any administration to gain genuine citizen support.
Kerrow has also highlighted the sensitive issue of the national debt, pointing out that calls for a public audit have often been met with resistance.
He explained that much of the borrowed money may not have been used in accordance with the Public Finance Management Act, which mandates that government loans be directed exclusively toward development purposes.
Mismanagement of these funds, he said, only heightens concerns about transparency and accountability.
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“This is not just about numbers or finances; it’s about the people’s confidence in their leaders and institutions. When borrowed funds are mismanaged, it feeds a cycle of distrust that makes it harder to implement even legitimate development projects,” Billow added.
The former lawmaker argued that restoring public trust requires stringent oversight, transparency, and an unwavering commitment to fight corruption.
Without these measures, he warned, citizens will continue to view government actions with scepticism, and development efforts may fail to achieve their intended impact. Kerrow’s remarks serve as a stark reminder that governance in Kenya cannot thrive without accountability.
He urged both government officials and civil society to prioritise integrity, transparency, and responsible management of public resources as critical steps toward rebuilding the bond of trust between leaders and citizens.