Mbadi’s absurd economics of corruption

In the theatre of Kenyan governance, where absurdity often masquerades as wisdom, Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi has graced us with a performance so baffling that it deserves a standing ovation—for the wrong reasons.

His latest proposal, a masterclass in thoughtless policy-making, suggests that instead of hiding their loot in offshore accounts, thieves should graciously reinvest their ill-gotten wealth within our Republic. Yes, you heard that right! Instead of fighting corruption with the might of the law, we are now to encourage it—just with a patriotic twist. Why smuggle your billions to Dubai when you can invest in a five-star hotel in Diani, or better yet, start a “legitimate” business that launders the money?

If we are to take the CS seriously, then perhaps we need to rewrite our economic textbooks. Corruption is no longer a vice; it is an investment strategy. Forget hard work, innovation, and ethical entrepreneurship—just master the art of grand looting, and the State will ensure your proceeds remain within the economy.

Even our education system will have to adapt. Instead of teaching business ethics, universities should introduce a degree in “Sustainable Corruption and Wealth Retention Strategies.” We could also establish a Ministry of Organised Theft, tasked with ensuring that all stolen money is reinvested locally in a way that stimulates economic growth. Perhaps we should introduce a “Loot Local” campaign, encouraging civil servants to steal only for local projects.

But let’s take a moment to pity the ordinary Kenyan, who wakes up at the crack of dawn, fights through traffic, and works tirelessly to make an honest living—only to be told by his government that he is, in fact, a fool. Why pay taxes when you can embezzle? Why hustle when you can swindle? Why build a business from scratch when you can siphon public funds and have the State cheer you on, provided you don’t send it abroad?

The real tragedy here isn’t just the absurdity of the proposal—it’s the fact that it was made in the first place. That the official entrusted with the nation’s financial well-being could float such an idea tells us all we need to know about the state of our leadership. May his wisdom inspire future generations—to loot boldly, but locally.

Edwin Wanyoike