Leadership and Integrity Act

LAWS OF KENYA
THE LEADERSHIP AND INTEGRITY ACT
CAP. 185C
Revised and published by the National Council for Law Reporting
with the authority of the Attorney-General as gazetted by the Government Printer
www.kenyalaw.org

Kenya
Leadership and Integrity Act
Cap. 185C
Legislation as at 19 August 2025
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Leadership and Integrity Act (Cap. 185C)
Contents
Part I – PRELIMINARY ....................................................................................................................................................................................... 1
1. Short title .................................................................................................................................................................................................... 1
2. Interpretation ............................................................................................................................................................................................. 1
3. Guiding values, principles and requirements ................................................................................................................................ 2
4. Implementation of the Act ................................................................................................................................................................... 2
5.

................................................................................................................................................. 2
5.

Delegation of functions by the Commission ................................................................................................................................. 3
Part II – GENERAL LEADERSHIP AND INTEGRITY CODE ...................................................................................................................... 3
6. General Code ............................................................................................................................................................................................. 3
7. Rule of law ................................................................................................................................................................................................. 3
8. Public trust ................................................................................................................................................................................................. 3
9. Responsibility and duties ...................................................................................................................................................................... 3
10.

................................................................................................................................................ 3
10.

Performance of duties .......................................................................................................................................................................... 3
11. Professionalism ....................................................................................................................................................................................... 4
12. Financial integrity ................................................................................................................................................................................. 4
12A. Self-declaration ................................................................................................................................................................................... 4
13. Moral and ethical requirements ...................................................................................................................................................... 4
14. [Deleted by Act No. 11 of 2025, 3rd Sch.] ................................................................................................................................... 5
15.

5, 3rd Sch.] ................................................................................................................................... 5
15.

Wrongful or unlawful acquisition of property ............................................................................................................................ 5
16. [Deleted by Act No. 11 of 2025, 3rd Sch.] ................................................................................................................................... 5
17. [Deleted by Act No. 11 of 2025, 3rd Sch.] ................................................................................................................................... 5
18. [Deleted by Act No. 11 of 2025, 3rd Sch.] ................................................................................................................................... 5
19. Bank accounts outside Kenya ........................................................................................................................................................... 5
20. Acting for foreigners ............................................................................................................................................................................ 5
21.

................................................................................................................................................ 5
21.

Care of property ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 6
22. Misuse of official information ........................................................................................................................................................... 6
23. [Deleted by Act No. 11 of 2025, 3rd Sch.] ................................................................................................................................... 6
24. Impartiality ............................................................................................................................................................................................... 6
25. Giving advice ........................................................................................................................................................................................... 6
26. [Deleted by Act No. 11 of 2025, 3rd Sch.] ................................................................................................................................... 6
27. [Deleted by Act No.

............................................................................................................................ 6
27. [Deleted by Act No.

11 of 2025, 3rd Sch.] ................................................................................................................................... 6
28. [Deleted by Act No. 11 of 2025, 3rd Sch.] ................................................................................................................................... 6
29. Misleading the public .......................................................................................................................................................................... 6
30. Falsification of records ........................................................................................................................................................................ 6
31. Citizenship ................................................................................................................................................................................................ 7

.................................................................................................................................................... 7

32. Conduct of private affairs ................................................................................................................................................................... 7
33. Tax, financial and legal obligations ............................................................................................................................................... 7
34. Bullying ..................................................................................................................................................................................................... 7
35. Acting through others .......................................................................................................................................................................... 7
36. Reporting improper orders ................................................................................................................................................................. 7
Part III – SPECIFIC LEADERSHIP AND INTEGRITY CODES ................................................................................................................... 7
37.

ADERSHIP AND INTEGRITY CODES ................................................................................................................... 7
37.

Establishment of specific Codes ....................................................................................................................................................... 7
38. Application of the general Code ...................................................................................................................................................... 8
39. Approval and publication of specific codes ................................................................................................................................. 8
Part IV – ENFORCEMENT OF THE LEADERSHIP AND INTEGRITY CODE ......................................................................................... 8
40. State officer to sign Specific Leadership and Integrity Code ................................................................................................. 8
41. Breach of the Code ............................................................................................................................................................................... 8
42.

................................................................................................................................................ 8
42.

Lodging of complaints and investigations ................................................................................................................................... 9
43. Referral for possible civil or criminal proceedings ................................................................................................................... 9
44. Advisory opinion .................................................................................................................................................................................. 10
45. Reports of the Commission ............................................................................................................................................................. 10
Part V – OFFENCES AND PENALTIES ........................................................................................................................................................ 10
46. Obstructing or hindering persons under this Act ................................................................................................................... 10
47.

ring persons under this Act ................................................................................................................... 10
47.

General penalty .................................................................................................................................................................................... 10
48. Breach of section 20 ......................................................................................................................................................................... 10
49. Forfeiture and compensation ......................................................................................................................................................... 10
Part VI – GENERAL PROVISIONS ................................................................................................................................................................. 11
50. Protection of officers of the Commission or public entity ................................................................................................... 11
51. Oversight over the Commissioners ............................................................................................................................................... 11
52.

............................................................................................................................................... 11
52.

Application of Chapter Six of the Constitution and this Act to public officers generally .......................................... 11
53. Leadership education and training generally ........................................................................................................................... 12
54. Regulations ............................................................................................................................................................................................ 12
Part VII – TRANSITIONAL PROVISION ....................................................................................................................................................... 12
55. [Deleted by Act No. 47 of 2012, Sch.] ........................................................................................................................................ 12
FIRST SCHEDULE [s. 12A] .............................................................................................................................................................................. 12
SECOND SCHEDULE [s.

............................................................................................................................... 12
SECOND SCHEDULE [s.

16] ............................................................................................................................................................................ 16

................................................................................................................................................... 16

Leadership and Integrity Act (Cap. 185C) Kenya
LEADERSHIP AND INTEGRITY ACT
CAP. 185C
Published in Kenya Gazette Vol. CXIV—No. 81 on 31 August 2012
Assented to on 27 August 2012
Commenced on 27 August 2012
[Amended by Statute Law (Miscellaneous Amendments) (No. 2) Act, 2012 (Act No. 47 of 2012) on 4 January 2013]
[Amended by Statute Law (Miscellaneous Amendments) Act, 2014 (Act No. 18 of 2014) on 8 December 2014]
[Revised by 24th Annual Supplement (Legal Notice 221 of 2023) on 31 December 2022]
[Amended by Statute Law (Miscellaneous Amendment) Act, 2023 (Act No. 19 of 2023) on 11 December 2023]
[Amended by Conflict of Interest Act (Act No. 11 of 2025) on 19 August 2025]
An Act of Parliament to give effect to, and establish procedures and mechanisms for the effective
administration of Chapter Six of the Constitution and for connected purposes
Part I – PRELIMINARY
1. Short title
This Act may be cited as the Leadership and Integrity Act. 2.

r Six of the Constitution and for connected purposes
Part I – PRELIMINARY
1. Short title
This Act may be cited as the Leadership and Integrity Act. 2.

Interpretation
(1) In this Act, unless the context otherwise requires—
"asset" means a thing, tangible or intangible, owned, whether wholly or in part, or controlled
by a person, which has an actual or determinable economic value and can be sold, exchanged or
otherwise used or applied to meet an obligation or acquire something else in return;
"authorised officer" means an authorised officer of a public entity having jurisdiction under the
Constitution or any other law to discipline the State officer in relation to whom the expression is
used;
"bank account" means an account maintained by a bank or any other financial institution for and
in the name of, or in the name designated by, a customer of the bank or other financial institution
and into which money is paid or withdrawn by or for the benefit of that customer or held in trust for
that customer and in which the transactions between the customer and the bank or other financial
institution are recorded;
"business associate" means a person who does business with or on behalf of a State officer and has
express or implied authority from that State officer;
"Cabinet Secretary" means the Cabinet Secretary for the time being responsible for matters
relating to leadership and integrity and includes the Attorney-General;
"Code" means the General Leadership and Integrity Code prescribed under Part II and includes a
specific Code of Leadership and Integrity prescribed under Part III of this Act;
"Commission" means the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission established under the Ethics and
Anti-Corruption Commission Act (Cap.

rt III of this Act;
"Commission" means the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission established under the Ethics and
Anti-Corruption Commission Act (Cap.

7H);
"dependant" means a person whose means of support is partially or wholly derived from a State
officer;
1

7H);
"dependant" means a person whose means of support is partially or wholly derived from a State
officer;
1

Leadership and Integrity Act (Cap. 185C) Kenya
"public entity" means—
(a) the Government, including the national or county government, or any department, State
organ, agency, service or undertaking of the national or county government;
(b) the National Assembly or the Parliamentary Service Commission;
(c) any corporation, council, board, committee or other body which has power to act under
and for the purposes of any written law relating to the undertakings of a public utility or
otherwise to administer funds belonging to or granted by the Government or money raised
by rates, taxes or charges in pursuance of any such law; or
(d) a corporation, the whole or a controlling majority of the shares of which are owned by a
person or entity that is a public body by virtue of any of the preceding paragraphs of this
definition; and
(e) statutory public bodies;
"public officer" has the meaning assigned to it under Article 260 of the Constitution;
"spouse" means a wife or husband;
"State officer" has the meaning assigned to it under Article 260 of the Constitution. (2) Spent. [Act No. 18 of 2014, Sch.]
3.

eans a wife or husband;
"State officer" has the meaning assigned to it under Article 260 of the Constitution. (2) Spent. [Act No. 18 of 2014, Sch.]
3.

Guiding values, principles and requirements
(1) The primary purpose of this Act is to ensure that State officers respect the values, principles and
requirements of the Constitution. (2) A State officer shall respect the values, principles and the requirements of the Constitution,
including—
(a) the national values and principles provided for under Article 10 of the Constitution;
(b) the rights and fundamental freedoms provided for under Chapter Four of the Constitution;
(c) the responsibilities of leadership provided for under Article 73 of the Constitution;
(d) the principles governing the conduct of State officers provided for under Article 75 of the
Constitution;
(e) the educational, ethical and moral requirements in accordance with Articles 99(1)(b) and
193(1)(b) of the Constitution;
(f) in the case of county governments, the objectives of devolution provided for under Article
174 of the Constitution; and
(g) in so far as is relevant, the values and principles of Public Service as provided for under
Article 232 of the Constitution. (3) Nothing in this Act shall be construed as in any way diminishing or derogating from the values and
principles under subsection (2). 4.

nstitution. (3) Nothing in this Act shall be construed as in any way diminishing or derogating from the values and
principles under subsection (2). 4.

Implementation of the Act
(1) Every person has the responsibility of implementing the provisions of this Act to the extent
required by this Act. (2) The Commission is responsible for overseeing and enforcing the implementation of this Act. 2

sions of this Act to the extent
required by this Act. (2) The Commission is responsible for overseeing and enforcing the implementation of this Act. 2

Leadership and Integrity Act (Cap. 185C) Kenya
(3) In undertaking its mandate, the Commission may request a State organ to assist it in ensuring
compliance with and enforcing Chapter Six of the Constitution and this Act. (4) The Commission may require any public entity to carry out such functions and exercise such powers
as may be necessary under this Act. (5) Where a public entity has failed to comply with the requirements under subsection (3), the
Commission may make an application before a High Court judge for appropriate orders requiring
the public entity to comply. 5. Delegation of functions by the Commission
The Commission may, by notice in the Gazette, delegate to a public entity or an authorised officer any of
its powers and functions under this Act. Part II – GENERAL LEADERSHIP AND INTEGRITY CODE
6. General Code
(1) This Part prescribes a general Leadership and Integrity Code for State officers. (2) The provisions of Chapter Six of the Constitution shall form part of this Code. (3) Deleted by Act No. 11 of 2025, 3rd Sch. (4) Deleted by Act No. 11 of 2025, 3rd Sch. [Act No. 11 of 2025, 3rd Sch.]
7.

hall form part of this Code. (3) Deleted by Act No. 11 of 2025, 3rd Sch. (4) Deleted by Act No. 11 of 2025, 3rd Sch. [Act No. 11 of 2025, 3rd Sch.]
7.

Rule of law
(1) A State officer shall respect and abide by the Constitution and the law. (2) A State officer shall carry out the duties of the office in accordance with the law. (3) In carrying out the duties of the office, a State officer shall not violate the rights and fundamental
freedoms of any person unless otherwise expressly provided for in the law and in accordance with
Article 24 of the Constitution. 8. Public trust
A State office is a position of public trust and the authority and responsibility vested in a State officer shall
be exercised by the State officer in the best interest of the people of Kenya. 9. Responsibility and duties
Subject to the Constitution and any other law, a State officer shall take personal responsibility for the
reasonably foreseeable consequences of any actions or omissions arising from the discharge of the duties
of the office. 10. Performance of duties
A State officer shall, to the best of their ability—
(a) carry out the duties of the office efficiently and honestly;
(b) carry out the duties in a transparent and accountable manner;
(c) keep accurate records and documents relating to the functions of the office; and
3

) carry out the duties in a transparent and accountable manner;
(c) keep accurate records and documents relating to the functions of the office; and
3

Leadership and Integrity Act (Cap. 185C) Kenya
(d) report truthfully on all matters of the organization which they represent. 11. Professionalism
A State officer shall—
(a) carry out duties of the office in a manner that maintains public confidence in the integrity of the
office;
(b) treat members of the public and other public officers with courtesy and respect;
(c) not discriminate against any person, except as is expressly provided by the law;
(d) to the extent appropriate to the office, maintain high standards of performance and level of
professionalism within the organisation; and
(e) if the State officer is a member of a professional body, observe and subscribe to the ethical and
professional requirements of that body in so far as the requirements do not contravene the
Constitution or this Act. 12. Financial integrity
(1) A State officer shall not use the office to unlawfully or wrongfully enrich himself or herself or any
other person. (2) Subject to Article 76(2)(b) of the Constitution, a State officer shall not accept a personal loan or
benefit which may compromise the State officer in carrying out his or her duties. 12A.

nstitution, a State officer shall not accept a personal loan or
benefit which may compromise the State officer in carrying out his or her duties. 12A.

Self-declaration
Any person intending to be appointed to a State office shall submit to the Commission a self-declaration
form in the form set out in the First Schedule. [Act No. 18 of 2014, Sch.]
13. Moral and ethical requirements
(1) For the purposes of Articles 99(1)(b) and 193(1)(b) of the Constitution, a person shall observe and
maintain the following ethical and moral requirements—
(a) demonstrate honesty in the conduct of public affairs;
(b) not to engage in activities that amount to abuse of office;
(c) accurately and honestly represent information to the public;
(d) not engage in wrongful conduct in furtherance of personal benefit;
(e) not misuse public resources;
(f) not discriminate against any person, except as expressly provided for under the law;
(g) not falsify any records;
(h) not engage in actions which would lead to the State officer’s removal from the membership
of a professional body in accordance with the law; and
(i) not commit offences and in particular, any of the offences under Parts XV and XVI of the
Penal Code (Cap. 63), the Sexual Offences Act (Cap. 63A), the Counter-Trafficking in Persons
Act (Cap. 61) and the Children Act (Cap. 141). 4

I of the
Penal Code (Cap. 63), the Sexual Offences Act (Cap. 63A), the Counter-Trafficking in Persons
Act (Cap. 61) and the Children Act (Cap. 141). 4

Leadership and Integrity Act (Cap. 185C) Kenya
(2) A person who wishes to be elected to a State office shall, for the purposes of this section, submit to
the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission a self-declaration in the form set out in the
First Schedule. [Act No. 11 of 2025, 3rd Sch.]
14. [Deleted by Act No. 11 of 2025, 3rd Sch.]
15. Wrongful or unlawful acquisition of property
A State officer shall not use the office to wrongfully or unlawfully influence the acquisition of property. 16. [Deleted by Act No. 11 of 2025, 3rd Sch.]
17. [Deleted by Act No. 11 of 2025, 3rd Sch.]
18. [Deleted by Act No. 11 of 2025, 3rd Sch.]
19. Bank accounts outside Kenya
(1) Subject to Article 76(2) of the Constitution or any other written law, a State officer shall not open or
continue to operate a bank account outside Kenya without the approval of the Commission. (2) A State officer who has reasonable grounds for opening or operating a bank account outside Kenya
shall apply to the Commission for approval to open or operate a bank account.

reasonable grounds for opening or operating a bank account outside Kenya
shall apply to the Commission for approval to open or operate a bank account.

(3) A State officer who operates or controls the operation of a bank account outside Kenya shall submit
statements of the account annually to the Commission and shall authorize the Commission to
verify the statements and any other relevant information from the foreign financial institution in
which the account is held. (4) Subject to subsections (1) and (2), upon the commencement of this Act, a serving State officer who
operates a bank account outside Kenya shall close the account within six months or such other
period as the Commission may, by notice in the Gazette, prescribe. (5) This section shall apply to—
(a) a State officer; and
(b) a Public officer. (6) Without prejudice to the foregoing provisions of this section, a State officer who fails to declare
operation or control of a bank account outside Kenya commits an offence and shall, upon
conviction, be liable to imprisonment for a term not exceeding five years, or a fine not exceeding
five million shillings, or both. 20.

nd shall, upon
conviction, be liable to imprisonment for a term not exceeding five years, or a fine not exceeding
five million shillings, or both. 20.

Acting for foreigners
(1) A State officer shall not be an agent of, or further the interests of a foreign government,
organisation or individual in a manner that may be detrimental to the security interests of Kenya,
except when acting in the course of official duty. (2) For the purposes of this section—
(a) an individual is a foreign individual if the individual is not a citizen of Kenya; and
(b) an organisation is a foreign organization if it is established outside Kenya or is owned or
controlled by a foreign government, organisation or individual. 5

nisation is a foreign organization if it is established outside Kenya or is owned or
controlled by a foreign government, organisation or individual. 5

Leadership and Integrity Act (Cap. 185C) Kenya
21. Care of property
(1) A State officer shall take all reasonable steps to ensure that public property in the officer’s custody,
possession or control is taken care of and is in good repair and condition. (2) A State officer shall not use public property, funds or services that are acquired in the course of or
as a result of the official duties, for activities that are not related to the official work of the State
officer. (3) A State officer shall return to the issuing authority all the public property in their custody,
possession or control at the end of the appointment, or election term. (4) A State officer who contravenes subsection (2) or (3) shall, in addition to any other penalties
provided for under the Constitution, this Act or any other law be personally liable for any loss or
damage to the public property. 22.

other penalties
provided for under the Constitution, this Act or any other law be personally liable for any loss or
damage to the public property. 22.

Misuse of official information
(1) A State officer shall not directly or indirectly use or allow any person under the officer’s authority to
use any information obtained through or in connection with the office, which is not available in the
public domain, for the furthering of any private interest, whether financial or otherwise. (2) The provisions of subsection (1), shall not apply where the information is to be used for the
purposes of—
(a) furthering the interests of this Act; or
(b) educational, research, literary, scientific or other purposes not prohibited by law. 23. [Deleted by Act No. 11 of 2025, 3rd Sch.]
24. Impartiality
A State officer shall, at all times, carry out the duties of the office with impartiality and objectivity in
accordance with Articles 10, 27, 73(2)(b) and 232 of the Constitution and shall not practise favouritism,
nepotism, tribalism, cronyism, religious bias or engage in corrupt or unethical practices. 25. Giving advice
A State officer who has a duty to give advice shall give honest, accurate and impartial advice without fear
or favour. 26. [Deleted by Act No. 11 of 2025, 3rd Sch.]
27. [Deleted by Act No. 11 of 2025, 3rd Sch.]
28. [Deleted by Act No.

ial advice without fear
or favour. 26. [Deleted by Act No. 11 of 2025, 3rd Sch.]
27. [Deleted by Act No. 11 of 2025, 3rd Sch.]
28. [Deleted by Act No.

11 of 2025, 3rd Sch.]
29. Misleading the public
A State officer shall not knowingly give false or misleading information to any person. 30. Falsification of records
A State officer shall not falsify any records or misrepresent information to the public. 6

ing information to any person. 30. Falsification of records
A State officer shall not falsify any records or misrepresent information to the public. 6

Leadership and Integrity Act (Cap. 185C) Kenya
31. Citizenship
(1) Subject to Article 78(3) of the Constitution, a State officer who acquires dual citizenship shall lose
his or her position as a State officer. (2) A person who holds dual citizenship shall, upon election or appointment to a State office, not take
office before officially renouncing their other citizenship in accordance with the provisions of the
Kenya Citizenship and Immigration Act (Cap. 170). 32. Conduct of private affairs
A State officer shall conduct private affairs in a manner that maintains public confidence in the integrity of
the office. 33. Tax, financial and legal obligations
(1) A State officer shall pay any taxes due from him or her within the prescribed period. (2) A State officer shall not neglect their financial or legal obligations. 34. Bullying
(1) A State officer shall not bully any person. (2) For purposes of subsection (1), "bullying" includes repeated offensive behaviour which is vindictive,
cruel, malicious or humiliating and is intended to undermine a person. 35.

(1), "bullying" includes repeated offensive behaviour which is vindictive,
cruel, malicious or humiliating and is intended to undermine a person. 35.

Acting through others
(1) A State officer contravenes the Code if the officer—
(a) causes anything to be done through another person that would constitute a contravention of
the Code if done by the State officer; or
(b) allows or directs a person under their supervision or control to do anything that is in
contravention of the Code. (2) Subsection (1)(b) shall not apply where anything is done without the State officer’s knowledge or
consent or if the State officer has taken reasonable steps to prevent it. (3) A State officer who acts under an unlawful direction shall be responsible for his or her action. 36. Reporting improper orders
(1) If a State officer considers that anything required of them is in contravention of the Code or is
otherwise improper or unethical, the State officer shall report the matter to the Commission. (2) The Commission shall investigate the report and take appropriate action within ninety days of
receiving the report. Part III – SPECIFIC LEADERSHIP AND INTEGRITY CODES
37. Establishment of specific Codes
(1) Each public entity shall prescribe a specific Leadership and Integrity Code for the State officers in
that public entity. 7

ment of specific Codes
(1) Each public entity shall prescribe a specific Leadership and Integrity Code for the State officers in
that public entity. 7

Leadership and Integrity Act (Cap. 185C) Kenya
(2) The specific Leadership and Integrity Code prescribed by a public entity shall include all the
requirements in the general Leadership and Integrity Code under Part II of this Act and may provide
for the manner in which any requirements of the specific or general Code may be satisfied. 38. Application of the general Code
Until a public entity has prescribed a specific Leadership and Integrity Code under section 37, the general
Code under Part II of this Act shall apply as though it were the specific Leadership and Integrity Code
prescribed by the public entity. 39. Approval and publication of specific codes
(1) A public entity shall submit the specific Leadership and Integrity Code prescribed under section 37
to the Commission for approval. (2) In considering the specific Leadership and Integrity Code submitted under subsection (1), the
Commission shall ensure that it is consistent with the General Code prescribed under Part II of this
Act, any other law and the Constitution.

(1), the
Commission shall ensure that it is consistent with the General Code prescribed under Part II of this
Act, any other law and the Constitution.

(3) The Commission shall, within thirty days of receipt of a specific Leadership and Integrity Code,
consider and approve it, with or without amendments, for publication in the Gazette. (4) Subject to the provisions of subsections (2) and (3), a public entity shall cause to be published
the specific Leadership and Integrity Code in the Gazette within ninety days of the receipt of the
approval from the Commission. (5) Any specific Code of a public entity existing at the commencement of this Act shall be deemed to
have been made under this Act and shall be submitted for approval by the Commission to ascertain
its conformity with the General Code and approval within ninety days after the commencement of
this Act. Part IV – ENFORCEMENT OF THE LEADERSHIP AND INTEGRITY CODE
40. State officer to sign Specific Leadership and Integrity Code
(1) Upon appointment or election, a State officer shall sign and commit to the specific Leadership and
Integrity Code issued by the relevant public entity at the time of taking the oath of office or within
seven days of assuming a State office.

ship and
Integrity Code issued by the relevant public entity at the time of taking the oath of office or within
seven days of assuming a State office.

(2) The High Court may upon application by any person, declare the assumption of office by a state
officer to be invalid for want of executing a commitment to the specific leadership and integrity
code. [Act No. 19 of 2023, Sch.]
41. Breach of the Code
(1) Subject to subsection (2), a breach of the Code amounts to misconduct for which the State officer
may be subjected to disciplinary proceedings. (2) Where an allegation of breach of the Code has been made against a State officer in respect of whom
the Constitution or any other law provides the procedure for removal or dismissal, the question of
removal or dismissal shall be determined in accordance with the Constitution or that other law. 8

procedure for removal or dismissal, the question of
removal or dismissal shall be determined in accordance with the Constitution or that other law. 8

Leadership and Integrity Act (Cap. 185C) Kenya
42. Lodging of complaints and investigations
(1) A person who alleges that a State officer has committed a breach of the Code, may lodge a
complaint with the relevant public entity and the public entity shall register and inquire into the
complaint. (2) A public entity may authorize any of its officers to inquire into a complaint on its behalf and
determine whether a State officer has contravened the Code. (3) An investigation may be made at the instance of a public entity. (4) A State officer being investigated under this section shall be informed by the investigating
authority, of the complaint made against that State officer and shall be given a reasonable
opportunity to make a representation relating to the issue, before the investigation is concluded. (5) A person who has lodged a complaint against a State officer shall be entitled to be informed of any
action taken or to be taken in respect of the complaint and shall be afforded a hearing. (6) Where an investigation under this section is initiated while the State officer is in office, it may be
continued even after the person under investigation has ceased to be a State officer.

ion is initiated while the State officer is in office, it may be
continued even after the person under investigation has ceased to be a State officer.

(7) Subject to the Constitution and any regulations for the enforcement of the Code made under this
Act, a State officer may be suspended from office pending the investigation and determination of
allegations made against that State officer where such suspension is considered necessary. (8) The Commission shall prescribe disciplinary mechanisms and procedures to be followed in the
event of contravention of the Code, and those mechanisms and procedures shall comply with
Article 47 of the Constitution or any other applicable written law for the time being in force. (9) The public entity or an authorized officer may take disciplinary action against a State officer serving
in the public entity. (10) Notwithstanding subsection (2) and (3), the Commission may inquire into and investigate an
alleged breach of the Code either upon receipt of a complaint or on its own motion. [Act No. 18 of 2014, Sch.]
43.

may inquire into and investigate an
alleged breach of the Code either upon receipt of a complaint or on its own motion. [Act No. 18 of 2014, Sch.]
43.

Referral for possible civil or criminal proceedings
(1) If upon investigation under this Part, the public entity is of the opinion that civil or criminal
proceedings ought to be preferred against the respective State officer, the public entity shall refer
the matter to—
(a) the Commission or the Attorney-General, with respect to civil matters;
(b) the Director of Public Prosecutions, with respect to criminal matters; or
(c) any other appropriate authority. (2) Referral of a matter under subsection (1) shall not preclude the person, the State organ or public
entity referring the matter from undertaking further investigations or action into the matter. (3) If a matter is referred to the Commission under subsection (1)(a) and in the opinion of the
Commission, criminal proceedings ought to be preferred against the respective State officer, the
matter shall be referred to the Director of Public Prosecutions. (4) In addition to the prosecution of a State officer, the Commission may take any other action that it
considers necessary. (5) The prosecution of any State officer is not a bar to other steps that the Commission may consider
necessary. 9

action that it
considers necessary. (5) The prosecution of any State officer is not a bar to other steps that the Commission may consider
necessary. 9

Leadership and Integrity Act (Cap. 185C) Kenya
44. Advisory opinion
(1) A State officer or public entity may request the Commission to give an advisory opinion on any
issue relating to the application of Chapter Six of the Constitution. (2) The Commission shall establish appropriate mechanisms and procedures for the provision of
advisory opinions under subsection (1) in a confidential and timely manner. 45. Reports of the Commission
(1) The Commission shall submit an annual report, containing all the information relevant to the
enforcement of and compliance with the provisions of this Act, to the President and Parliament. (2) The Commission shall publish the report made under subsection (1) in the Gazette and facilitate
reasonable access of the report by the public. Part V – OFFENCES AND PENALTIES
46.

the report made under subsection (1) in the Gazette and facilitate
reasonable access of the report by the public. Part V – OFFENCES AND PENALTIES
46.

Obstructing or hindering persons under this Act
(1) A person shall not—
(a) without justification or lawful excuse, obstruct, hinder, assault or threaten a person
undertaking his or her duties under this Act;
(b) deceive or knowingly mislead the Commission, a public entity or a person undertaking his or
her duties under this Act;
(c) destroy, alter, conceal or remove documents, records or evidence that the person believes, or
has grounds to believe may be relevant to an investigation or proceedings under this Act; or
(d) provide false information to the Commission, a public entity or a person acting under this
Act. (2) A person who contravenes subsection (1) commits an offence and is liable, on conviction, to a fine
not exceeding five million shillings, or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding five years, or to
both. 47. General penalty
Any person who is convicted of an offence under this Act, for which no penalty is expressly provided, shall
be liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding five hundred thousand shillings, or to imprisonment for a
term not exceeding three years, or to both. 48.

liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding five hundred thousand shillings, or to imprisonment for a
term not exceeding three years, or to both. 48.

Breach of section 20
State officer who does not comply with the provisions of section 20 commits an offence and is liable, on
conviction, to a fine not exceeding five million shillings, or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding five
years, or to both. 49. Forfeiture and compensation
(1) Where a State officer is proven to have obtained any property in breach of this Act, the State officer
shall, subject to any appeal which the officer may make, forfeit the property and the property shall
be held by the Commission or by an agent appointed by the Commission in trust for the Republic,
until it is lawfully disposed of. 10

he property shall
be held by the Commission or by an agent appointed by the Commission in trust for the Republic,
until it is lawfully disposed of. 10

Leadership and Integrity Act (Cap. 185C) Kenya
(2) The Commission may order a State officer referred to in subsection (1) to pay by way of
compensation to the State such sum, including interest, as may be determined by the Commission
as just, having regard to the loss suffered by the Government or public entity and such order shall
be deemed to be a decree under section 25 of the Civil Procedure Act (Cap. 21) and shall be executed
in the manner prescribed under Part III of that Act. (3) For the purposes of subsection (2), the rate of interest on any property or money irregularly
obtained shall not be less than the prevailing lending rates and shall be payable with effect from the
day such property or money was obtained. (4) The money or proceeds of the sale of property which is forfeited to the Government under this
section shall be paid into the Consolidated Fund. Part VI – GENERAL PROVISIONS
50.

he sale of property which is forfeited to the Government under this
section shall be paid into the Consolidated Fund. Part VI – GENERAL PROVISIONS
50.

Protection of officers of the Commission or public entity
Subject to this Act, no civil or criminal liability shall attach to an officer of the Commission or public entity
acting on the instructions of the chief executive officer of a public entity, for anything done in good faith
by that officer in the performance of the duties under this Act. 51. Oversight over the Commissioners
(1) Where a violation of Chapter Six of the Constitution or this Act, which is not a violation as
contemplated in Article 251 of the Constitution, is alleged against a member of the Commission,
the President shall establish an independent review panel to inquire into the allegation. (2) An allegation under subsection (1) shall be submitted to the Cabinet Secretary by way of petition
setting out the alleged violation, and the Cabinet Secretay shall submit the petition to the
President. (3) The independent review panel established under subsection (1) shall comprise five State officers of
good character and integrity drawn from any of the Commissions established under Chapter Fifteen
of the Constitution.

comprise five State officers of
good character and integrity drawn from any of the Commissions established under Chapter Fifteen
of the Constitution.

(4) The independent review panel shall inquire into the alleged contravention or violation committed
by a member of the Commission. (5) If the inquiry discloses that a member of the Commission has violated Chapter Six of the
Constitution, the independent review panel shall take the appropriate disciplinary action, or if it
does not have the power to take the appropriate disciplinary action, refer the matter to a body or
person who is vested with that power. (6) Regulations made under section 54(f) shall apply to the disciplinary procedures under this section. (7) A person who is dissatisfied with the decision of the independent review panel may apply for a
review within fifteen days from the date of the decision. (8) The independent review panel shall review its decision within fifteen days after the application for
review. (9) A person who is dissatisfied with the decision of the independent review panel under subsection (8)
may appeal to the High Court and the Court shall make a decision within thirty days of the appeal. 52.

e independent review panel under subsection (8)
may appeal to the High Court and the Court shall make a decision within thirty days of the appeal. 52.

Application of Chapter Six of the Constitution and this Act to public officers generally
Pursuant to Article 80(c) of the Constitution, the provisions of Chapter Six of the Constitution and this Act
shall apply to all public officers as if they were State officers. [Act No. 11 of 2025, 3rd Sch.]
11

s of Chapter Six of the Constitution and this Act
shall apply to all public officers as if they were State officers. [Act No. 11 of 2025, 3rd Sch.]
11

Leadership and Integrity Act (Cap. 185C) Kenya
53. Leadership education and training generally
The Cabinet Secretaries responsible for leadership and integrity, constitutional affairs, education and
the public service shall collaborate with the Commission and the relevant public entity for the purpose of
developing and overseeing the provision of long term education and training on leadership and integrity
to—
(a) all public officers;
(b) all levels of the education system; and
(c) the public. 54. Regulations
(1) The Commission shall make Regulations for the better carrying out of the provisions of this Act.

ation system; and
(c) the public. 54. Regulations
(1) The Commission shall make Regulations for the better carrying out of the provisions of this Act.

(2) Without prejudice to the generality of subsection (1), the Commission may make Regulations to—
(a) prescribe the limitations on the types of gifts that a State officer can receive under section
14;
(b) prescribe for the maximum value of gifts that a State officer can receive under section 14;
(c) prescribe for a mechanism for the receipt, collection, storage and disposal of gifts under
section 14;
(d) provide a mechanism and procedure for the opening, maintaining and publicizing of
registers of conflict of interest under section 16;
(e) prescribe the grounds and conditions for opening, registering, maintaining, controlling and
closing bank accounts outside Kenya under section 19;
(f) provide for the regulation on lodging of complaints, investigation and disciplinary processes
and mechanisms on the enforcement of the Code under section 42. Part VII – TRANSITIONAL PROVISION
55. [Deleted by Act No. 47 of 2012, Sch.]
FIRST SCHEDULE [s. 12A]
SELF-DECLARATION FORM
1. GENERAL INFORMATION
Title Surname First
Name
Middle
Name
Other
Names
Mr./Mrs./Prof/Miss/
Ms/Dr. 12

.]
FIRST SCHEDULE [s. 12A]
SELF-DECLARATION FORM
1. GENERAL INFORMATION
Title Surname First
Name
Middle
Name
Other
Names
Mr./Mrs./Prof/Miss/
Ms/Dr. 12

Leadership and Integrity Act (Cap. 185C) Kenya
ID CARD NO. PASSPORT NO. EXPIRY DATE OF
NO. PASSPORT
PIN NO.
MALE FEMALESEX
(Tick)
OCCUPATION E-MAIL
ADDRESS
TELEPHONE
NO.
MOBILE NO. OTHER
NUMBERS
RESIDENCE ESTATE/TOWN/
LOCATION
P. O. BOX
CODEDISTRICT
POSTAL ADDRESS
TOWN/CITY
COUNTY
COUNTRY
OTHER ADDRESSES
2. BIRTH INFORMATION
DATE OF BIRTH BIRTH
CERTIFICATE NO.
PLACE OF BIRTH
DISTRICT OF BIRTH COUNTY OF BIRTH COUNTRY OF BIRTH
3. NATIONALITY
Kenyan Dual ☐
(Provide details____________________________)
4. MARITAL STATUS
☐ SINGLE ☐ DIVORCED ☐ MARRIED
☐ WIDOWED
☐ SEPARATED
IF MARRIED GIVE NAMES OF THE SPOUSE (S) (Surname, First name, middle name, others)
13

RITAL STATUS
☐ SINGLE ☐ DIVORCED ☐ MARRIED
☐ WIDOWED
☐ SEPARATED
IF MARRIED GIVE NAMES OF THE SPOUSE (S) (Surname, First name, middle name, others)
13

Leadership and Integrity Act (Cap. 185C) Kenya
NATIONALITY OF SPOUSE
NAMES OF CHILDREN UNDER THE AGE OF 18 YEARS
5. EDUCATIONAL QUALIFICATIONS
☐ PRIMARY CERTIFICATE ☐ SECONDARY ☐ 'A' LEVEL
☐ DIPLOMA ☐ DEGREE ☐ MASTERS ☐ PHD
OTHERS _______________________________________
HIGHEST ACADEMIC QUALIFICATION OBTAINED
Qualification Institution Year
6. LANGUAGE SPOKEN
First Language Second Language Other
7. MEMBERSHIP OF PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATION(S) (IF ANY)
Name of Organization Date of Admission Membership No.
8. REASON(S) FOR DECLARATION
Purpose for which declaration is required
☐ Election
☐ Employment
☐ Others (Specify) _______________________________________________________
State office for which the declaration is being
submitted
9. MORAL AND ETHICAL QUESTIONS
Answers to the following questions are mandatory. If **YES** to any question you must provide additional
information on a supplementary sheet.
a) Have you ever engaged in any form of dishonesty in the conduct
of public affairs?
YES NO
14

rovide additional
information on a supplementary sheet.
a) Have you ever engaged in any form of dishonesty in the conduct
of public affairs?
YES NO
14

Leadership and Integrity Act (Cap. 185C) Kenya
b) Have you ever abused a public office? c) Have you ever misrepresented information to the public? d) Have you ever engaged in wrongful conduct whilst in the
furtherance of personal benefit? e) Have you ever misused public resources? f) Have you ever discriminated against anyone on any grounds other
than as provided for under the Constitution or any other law? g) Have you ever falsified official or personal records? h) Have you ever been debarred or removed from the Register of
Members of your professional organization? i) Have you ever had any occupational or vocational license revoked
and/or otherwise subjected to any other disciplinary action for cause
in Kenya or any other country? j) Have you ever been dismissed from employment on account of
lack of integrity? k) If you have been a public officer, have you ever failed to declare
your Income, Assets and Liabilities as required under the Public
Officer Ethics Act (Cap. 185B)? l) Have you ever been the subject of disciplinary or criminal
proceedings for breach of the Public Officer Ethics Act, 2003 or a
Code prescribed thereunder?

e you ever been the subject of disciplinary or criminal
proceedings for breach of the Public Officer Ethics Act, 2003 or a
Code prescribed thereunder?

m) Have you ever been convicted of any offence and sentenced to
serve imprisonment for a period of at least six months? n) Have you ever had an application for a Certificate of Clearance
or a Certificate of Good Conduct or for a visa or other document
authorizing work in a public office denied and/or rejected for cause
in Kenya or any other country? 10. EMPLOYMENT INFORMATION
NAME OF EMPLOYER POSITION/RANK DATE OF FIRST
APPOINTMENT
DATE OF
PRESENT
APPOINTMENT
15

ause
in Kenya or any other country? 10. EMPLOYMENT INFORMATION
NAME OF EMPLOYER POSITION/RANK DATE OF FIRST
APPOINTMENT
DATE OF
PRESENT
APPOINTMENT
15

Leadership and Integrity Act (Cap. 185C) Kenya
WORKSTATION NATURE OF EMPLOYMENT
(Constitutional/Elective/Permanent/Contractual/Other)
OATH OF AFFIRMATION
I solemnly swear (or affirm) and certify, under penalty of false declaration under the Oaths and Statutory
Declarations Act (Cap. 15), that all the foregoing statements in this declaration are true and correct to the best of
my knowledge. Dated at ..........................., this .......... day of ................... SIGNATURE OF DECLARANT: ............................................................... SWORN/DECLARED BEFORE ME
This ........ day of ................ 20 ........, at ...................... .......................................................... Commissioner for Oaths/ Magistrate
SECOND SCHEDULE [s. 16]
REGISTRABLE INTERESTS
1. Directorships in public or private companies, whether or not remunerated directly or indirectly. 2. Remunerated employment (including office, trade, profession or vocation which is remunerated or which the
State officer has any pecuniary interest). 3.

emunerated employment (including office, trade, profession or vocation which is remunerated or which the
State officer has any pecuniary interest). 3.

Securities (shares, bonds, debentures or any other similar holding) in a company or enterprise or undertaking
the aggregate nominal or market value of which exceeds a prescribed value while the state officer was in office. 4. Contracts for supply of goods and services. 5. Plans or expectations for or offers of future employment. 6. Public affairs advice and services to clients. 7. Shareholdings (amounting or not amounting to a controlling interest). 8. Land and property. 9. Sponsorship (from companies, trade unions, professional bodies, charities, universities or other organizations
or individuals). 10. Travel facilities and overseas visits (made by a State officer or the State officer’s spouse or child substantially
catered for by the office of the State officer). 11. Gifts, benefits and hospitality (to a State officer or the State officer’s spouse or partner or child or any other
material benefit of a prescribed value, from a company, organization or person within Kenya or overseas, which
relates substantially to the membership of a state office to a state office or Parliament or County Assembly). 12.

son within Kenya or overseas, which
relates substantially to the membership of a state office to a state office or Parliament or County Assembly). 12.

Miscellaneous financial interests (not falling within the above categories but which a reasonable member of
the public would think might influence the conduct of a State Officer in his office). 13. Non-financial interests (which may reasonably be thought to affect the way a member discharges the duties
in a State Office (such as unremunerated directorships; membership of public bodies such as hospital trusts,
governing bodies of universities, colleges or schools, and other spheres of government; trusteeships, etc.). 14. Pending civil and criminal cases touching on the State officer or business associate or firm. 16

Leadership and Integrity Act (Cap. 185C) Kenya
15. Possession of dual citizenship or pending applications for dual citizenship and the status of such application.
17