In Summary
- Whistleblowers face growing threats, including abductions and intimidation
- Kenya lacks a strong, unified legal protection for whistleblowers
- A new Bill seeks to secure and empower truth-tellers
Whistle blowing in a Climate of Fear
In Kenya today, blowing the whistle on wrongdoing often comes with a heavy price. From threats and job loss to abductions and even death, whistleblowers operate in a climate of fear. These brave individuals civil servants, journalists, community watchdogs continue to expose corruption, fraud, and public abuse, but many are left unprotected. The fear has created a chilling effect, discouraging potential whistleblowers and weakening public accountability. As the country marks World Whistleblower Protection Day 2025 under the theme “Courage Without Consequence: AdvocatingJusticeforWhistleblowers,” there is renewed urgency to ensure that truth-telling is not punished but protected.
Government Vows Protection Through New Law
Speaking at a high-level forum convened by Transparency International Kenya, Judith Pareno, Principal Secretary in the State Department for Justice, Human Rights and Constitutional Affairs, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protect whistleblowers. She called whistleblowers “defenders of the rule of law,” noting that their actions strengthen institutions and uphold the Constitution. “Safeguarding the truth begins with protecting those who dare to speak it,” said Pareno. She acknowledged the persistent fear among would-be whistleblowers and emphasized the need to convert existing laws into real protections.
The government, she revealed, has already drafted a Whistleblower Protection Bill, currently under public participation in counties including Kisumu, Garissa, Mombasa, Nairobi, and Nakuru. The proposed law aims to establish secure reporting systems, protect whistleblowers from reprisals, and impose a legal obligation on public institutions to facilitate safe disclosures. “This Bill is not a token gesture it is a national necessity,” Pareno said. “Every Kenyan should feel empowered to say ‘this is wrong’ without fear of losing everything.”
Civil Society Sounds Alarm Over Legal Gaps
Sheila Masinde, Executive Director of Transparency International Kenya, warned that the absence of a comprehensive whistleblower law continues to put lives at risk. “Whistleblowers are the conscience of our society,” she said. “They shine a light where others would rather keep darkness.” Yet far too often, they do so without any legal protection. Masinde decried recent trends of harassment, illegal detention, and abductions targeting whistleblowers, calling these acts a threat to democracy and justice.
She explained that current laws including the Anti-Corruption and Economic Crimes Act, the Leadership and Integrity Act, and the Employment Act only provide fragmented protections. “They lack clear reporting mechanisms and are silent on protections against retaliation,” she said. While the Witness Protection Act exists, it only covers criminal proceedings and fails to address workplace or institutional whistleblowing. Masinde emphasized the need to fast-track the Whistleblower Protection Bill, urging government and Parliament to prioritize it. “We must move from intention to action,” she said.
Celebrating Integrity Through National Awards
In addition to policy advocacy, the day also marked the launch of the 4th National Integrity Actions Awards by TI-Kenya. The awards recognize individuals, groups, and institutions who lead by example in promoting integrity and accountability, often at great personal cost. “These awards are about people who choose principle over personal gain,” said Masinde. She also acknowledged the role of civil society partners like the Kenya Human Rights Commission, TISA, Inuka Kenya Ni Sisi!, and international donors like Diakonia for consistently supporting whistleblower advocacy. The event called on all stakeholders government, civil society, private sector, and citizens to join in creating a culture where integrity is rewarded, not punished.
What the Law Says and What Needs Fixing
At present, Kenya lacks a stand-alone law focused solely on whistleblower protection. The Anti-Corruption and Economic Crimes Act mentions corruption reporting but lacks mechanisms to protect the reporter. The Public Officers Ethics Act and Employment Act promote workplace ethics but do not offer reprieve to whistleblowers who face retaliation. Even the Witness Protection Act, which provides security in criminal cases, does not extend to everyday whistleblowing scenarios especially those within institutions.
The proposed Whistleblower Protection Bill seeks to fill these gaps. If passed, it will create anonymous and safe reporting platforms, protect whistleblowers from being fired or harassed, and compel public bodies to act on disclosures responsibly. “Whistleblowing is not betrayal it is bravery, it is justice,” said Pareno. The Bill also aligns Kenya with international standards and reflects constitutional values such as transparency, accountability, and public participation. With public feedback ongoing, the time to act is now.
Truth-Tellers Deserve More Than Applause
As the event closed, a clear message echoed from both government and civil society: whistleblowers must not walk alone. They deserve more than applause they deserve safety, support, and justice. “Let us leave with resolve,” said Pareno. “The resolve to protect the truth-tellers. To speak truth to power loudly, legally, and boldly.” The fate of whistleblowers in Kenya now depends on the will of the state to pass a law that doesn’t just recognize courage but protects it.
