The Kenyan Cabinet has ordered the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to investigate a suspected payroll fraud totaling Ksh6.2 billion following widespread irregularities discovered in state departments.

• The suspected fraud amounts to Ksh6.2 billion based on a sample audit of 12 out of 53 state departments.
• The Cabinet, chaired by President William Ruto, issued the directive during a meeting at State House, Nairobi.
• The investigation aims to verify payroll data, dismantle criminal networks, recover funds, and ensure prosecution, alongside the approval of a comprehensive payroll reform program.

President William Ruto has ordered a Sh6.2 billion payroll fraud probe and approved sweeping reforms to tighten oversight of the public wage bill, following an audit that exposed widespread weaknesses.

• Investigators will target unauthorized payroll alterations and irregular payments uncovered in a sample review of 12 out of 53 State Departments.
• The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has been directed to investigate, dismantle criminal networks, recover funds, and prosecute those responsible.
• Cabinet also approved a comprehensive payroll reform program, including a government-wide audit and mandatory migration to the revamped Integrated Human Resource and Payroll System.

Kenya's Cabinet has ordered an immediate, mandatory migration of all government Ministries, Departments, Agencies, and State Corporations to a new Integrated Human Resource and Payroll System.

• The directive aims to streamline public wage management, enhance transparency, and eliminate payroll fraud and unauthorized payments.
• Key figures involved include President William Ruto and Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku.
• This move follows earlier threats by CS Ruku to freeze salaries for non-compliant agencies and a recent audit revealing payroll system weaknesses.