Kenya’s government has asked the International Monetary Fund to conduct an official review of corruption and governance challenges, the IMF confirmed to Reuters, following pressure from Western countries.
Kenya has been grappling with mounting debt in recent years, and its decision to withdraw proposed tax increases earlier this year—after deadly protests—has complicated its efforts to secure a $600 million disbursement from the IMF.
Countries must formally request the “governance diagnostic,” which examines whether corruption and governance weaknesses are undermining revenue or causing other financial issues.
“We have received a governance diagnostics request from the authorities,” an IMF spokesperson said in response to written inquiries.
“The Kenyan government seeks to strengthen its governance and anti-corruption frameworks. They plan to use these diagnostics to improve public spending efficiency, enhance competitiveness, promote growth, and reduce poverty inclusively.”
A source familiar with the matter said that although the assessment is not directly tied to the IMF disbursement, it would demonstrate Kenya’s commitment to improving its financial situation.
Public frustration over perceived government corruption and waste fueled mass protests in June, leading President William Ruto to cancel $2.7 billion in proposed tax hikes. Kenya’s finance ministry did not respond to requests for comment.
It was reported on Tuesday that Western nations had been urging the IMF to conduct the assessment.
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