Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration, Kithure Kindiki, has taken decisive action to address the issues plaguing the Immigration and Citizen Services offices at Nyayo House in Nairobi. The primary concern has been the prolonged processing times for passports, often linked to corruption and the presence of idlers and brokers in the vicinity.
In an official statement, Kindiki announced a series of stringent measures aimed at cleaning up the operations of these government offices. The most significant change is the ban on idlers hanging around Nyayo House. The facility will now be accessible only to authorized staff and passport applicants. This move is designed to root out the influence of brokers and eradicate bribery practices that have plagued the office.
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Kindiki issued a stern warning to idlers and passport brokers, emphasizing that they would face severe legal consequences. He made it clear that loitering around Nyayo House would not be tolerated, and security officers would be tasked with enforcing order and apprehending anyone soliciting bribes from passport and citizenship document applicants.
Kindiki emphasized a “zero-tolerance” policy toward corruption, asserting that all individuals seeking services from the Immigration Department must be treated with respect and courtesy.
To enhance efficiency, Kindiki announced the establishment of emergency desks dedicated to expediting passport processing for individuals with urgent travel needs, such as those seeking medical treatment abroad, students enrolling in foreign educational institutions, and those with imminent job opportunities overseas. Special attention will also be given to expectant and lactating mothers, parents or guardians accompanying minors, the elderly, and persons with disabilities at immigration desks.
The Cabinet Secretary pledged the government’s commitment to clearing the current passport backlog within the next two weeks. This ambitious goal involves addressing production challenges through the acquisition of modern printing machines, the recruitment of additional immigration officers, and infrastructure improvements.
Kindiki previously attributed the delays in passport processing to widespread corruption at Nyayo House, acknowledging that some officials were accepting bribes for services that should be provided free of charge. He expressed his determination to cleanse Nyayo House of corruption and stated that drastic measures might be taken, including sealing off the building if necessary.
Kindiki had earlier appeared before a Parliamentary Committee in which he declared Nyayo House a Crime Scene. The interior ministry has announced that four suspected passport brokers have already been apprehended at the immigration offices, reinforcing the urgency of the reforms.
In summary, Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki is taking strong steps to combat corruption and inefficiencies in the Immigration and Citizen Services offices at Nyayo House. His reforms include restrictions on idlers, the establishment of emergency desks, and a commitment to clearing the passport backlog. The government’s unwavering commitment to eliminating corruption and improving service delivery is at the forefront of these efforts.
Article by Stephen Kamau
