West Pokot County Commissioner Apollo Okello Urges Public Integrity, Warns Against Corruption

Makutano Stadium, West Pokot County – During the recent Mashujaa Day celebrations, County Commissioner (CC) Apollo Okello issued a stern warning to residents about the dangers of corruption, emphasizing that this issue is giving way to fraudulent activities, including issuance of counterfeit birth certificates.

According to a new release by Kenya News Agency, Okello explained that corruption has become deeply rooted in Kenyan society, particularly in areas of Kacheliba within West Pokot County. He mentioned that cases of residents being issued fake birth certificates have come to light and cited an example where people lost as much as Sh3,000 for these counterfeit documents. “You only need Sh 150, and you must be given a receipt to get a birth certificate. Most government services are free,” Okello pointed out.

The CC also directed his message to public officers, stating that those in service should perform their duties without expecting bribes or offering preferential treatment. “We even have some job seekers who think that they can bribe so as to be employed. That is not how government officers are employed,” he clarified. He urged employees from both the National and County Governments to work collaboratively in serving the public, as that would make them true heroes.

In addition to addressing corruption, the CC also focused on the importance of maintaining peace within the community. Okello noted that there have been instances of tension along the county borders, especially after the recent elections. He called upon local leaders to engage in peace talks rather than escalating tensions. “We have been enjoying peaceful coexistence with our neighbors from Turkana, but it seems after the elections, conflicts have emerged,” he said.

Area Governor Simon Kachapin supported Okello’s call for peace and stressed that focus should be on community engagement. Other leaders present at the ceremony included County Senator Julius Murgor, Woman Representative Rael Kasiwai, and Kapenguria Legislator Samuel Moroto.