Former Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC) Managing Director, Dr Kenneth Tarus, who was suspended in 2018 over a massive corruption scandal, is once again making headlines this time for being shortlisted for a Principal Secretary (PS) position under President William Ruto’s administration.
Dr Tarus’s name is familiar to many Kenyans due to his controversial exit from KPLC.
Former KPLC MD Kenneth Tarus duiring a past media presser. Photo: NTV Kenya Source: X
In 2018, he surrendered to authorities after the Directorate of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Noordin Haji recommended his prosecution.
Tarus, alongside other senior KPLC officials, was accused of economic crimes linked to the procurement of defective transformers and irregularities in awarding contracts to 525 companies.
The alleged graft involved over Ksh 4.5 billion, and the charges included conspiracy to defraud, abuse of office, and failure to adhere to procurement laws.
The scandal rocked Kenya’s energy sector, leading to the arrests of several top officials, including former KPLC Managing Director Ben Chumo.
Tarus was held at Muthaiga Police Station and faced public outrage over his alleged role in the misuse of taxpayer funds.
Fast forward to 2025, and the news of Dr Tarus being shortlisted for a PS position has raised eyebrows among Kenyans. Critics argue that his past record should disqualify him from holding any government office. Many are questioning the government’s vetting process and whether individuals implicated in past corruption scandals are being recycled into high-ranking positions.
This development has sparked outrage on social media, with many calling for transparency and accountability in public appointments. While Dr Tarus has not been convicted of any crimes, his inclusion in the PS shortlist has reignited debates about Kenya’s fight against corruption and the credibility of leadership under the current regime.
The government is yet to respond to public outcry, but for many, the idea of rewarding a tainted figure with a prestigious role epitomises the systemic issues in Kenya’s leadership.
