Lilian Nyiva
The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has secured the conviction of two former employees of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) after they were found guilty of using forged academic certificates to obtain and advance in public service employment.
According to the EACC, the two individuals fraudulently presented fake academic qualifications to secure employment at the electoral body and later used the forged documents to progress in their careers. Following investigations and prosecution, the court convicted both former employees on charges related to forgery and fraudulent acquisition of public employment.
Court Upholds Accountability
The convictions underscore the government's continued efforts to combat corruption and uphold integrity within the public service. The EACC has maintained that the use of forged academic certificates undermines merit-based recruitment and denies qualified candidates employment opportunities.
The commission has consistently warned that public officers found to have obtained jobs or promotions through fraudulent academic credentials will face legal action, including prosecution and recovery of salaries and benefits where applicable under the law.
EACC's Crackdown on Certificate Fraud
The convictions form part of the EACC's broader campaign against certificate forgery in public institutions. In recent years, the commission has intensified investigations into cases involving fake academic and professional qualifications, working closely with universities, examination bodies, and other agencies to verify credentials presented by public officers.
The commission has urged all public institutions to strengthen verification processes during recruitment and promotions to prevent fraud.
Public Service Integrity
EACC has reiterated that integrity, transparency, and accountability remain key principles in public service. The commission encouraged public institutions to continue conducting thorough background checks on job applicants and warned that anyone found using forged documents risks criminal prosecution, dismissal from employment, and other legal consequences.
The conviction of the two former IEBC employees reinforces the government's commitment to protecting the integrity of public institutions and ensuring that employment opportunities are awarded based on genuine qualifications and merit.
