Claims of fevourism, corruption and intimidation within the Kenya Prisons Service have once again come into the spotlight after Nyakundi Report published fresh allegations from officers who say they have endured years of unfair treatment, delayed promotions and poor welfare.
The claims, which have not been independently verified, have sparked renewed calls for authorities to investigate whether the concerns raised reflect deeper problems within the service.
According to the complaints, many officers believe the challenges they face go beyond difficult working conditions.
They claim some senior officials have created an environment where favoritism and fear have replaced fairness and professionalism.
Officers say many of their colleagues have remained in the same job positions for decades despite years of service, while others allegedly secure promotions because of personal connections rather than merit.
The allegations also question how promotions are handled within the service. Officers claim that some personnel who have served for nearly 30 years continue waiting for advancement while others are allegedly fast tracked.
They further allege that corruption influences some promotion decisions, claims that have not been independently verified.
Another issue raised concerns escort allowances. Officers assigned to escort duties claim they sometimes receive only KSh100 or KSh200, amounts they believe are far below what is officially allocated. They are now asking for a transparent audit to establish whether the money meant for them is reaching the intended beneficiaries.
The complaints also extend to transfer allowances. According to the whistleblower, some officers allegedly receive the approved funds in their bank accounts before being instructed to refund part of the money. If proven true, such claims would raise serious concerns about financial accountability and the handling of public funds.
Housing and access to uniforms have also emerged as major grievances. Junior officers claim they struggle to secure accommodation while some senior officers continue occupying government houses despite receiving higher house allowances.
They also allege that uniforms are often delayed for junior officers even as senior officers receive theirs without similar challenges.
The whistleblower further claims that officers who question promotions, allowances or welfare issues risk transfers, disciplinary action or other forms of victimisation, creating a culture where many choose to remain silent.
The Kenya Prisons Service is led by Commissioner General Patrick Aranduh under the State Department for Correctional Services.
Officers are urging the relevant government agencies to conduct an independent investigation into the allegations and determine whether there is evidence of wrongdoing.
Below is the complaint received.
“Dear Nyakundi,
I am writing to express the deep frustration and concerns of many officers serving in the Kenya Prisons Service. We believe these issues deserve public attention and urgent intervention.
Promotions are allegedly influenced by favoritism and nepotism, with some senior positions being awarded to relatives of influential individuals. Meanwhile, many dedicated officers who have served faithfully for nearly 30 years remain stagnant without promotion. There are also widespread allegations that some promotions are obtained through corruption.
Junior officers assigned escort duties are reportedly paid only KSh100 or KSh200 despite the official entitlement allegedly being much higher.
Some officers are allegedly given transfer allowances and later instructed to refund part of the money after it reaches their accounts.
Senior officers receive substantial house allowances yet continue occupying government houses, leaving junior officers with limited accommodation despite receiving very small house allowances.
Junior officers frequently experience delays in receiving uniforms while senior officers receive theirs on time.
Officers who raise concerns allegedly face transfers, disciplinary action or other forms of victimisation.
We ask the relevant authorities to investigate these issues and restore fairness within the Kenya Prisons Service.”
