• Other key provisions of the Act include the establishment of a structured system for managing conflicts of interest and Declarations of Income, Assets, and Liabilities (DIALs).

The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has officially announced the commencement of the Conflict of Interest Act, 2025, following presidential assent on July 30, 2025.

The new law, which takes effect on August 19, 2025, aims to strengthen the fight against corruption and unethical conduct by regulating conflicts of interest, as well as the declaration of income, assets, and liabilities (DIALs) by public officers.

The Act repeals the Public Officer Ethics Act, 2003, consolidating various provisions on conflict of interest and introducing stiffer penalties for violations. According to EACC, violators face fines of up to four million shillings or imprisonment not exceeding ten years, or both.

In addition, a mandatory fine will be imposed equal to two times the value of the benefit gained or loss incurred. For corporate bodies, the fine will not exceed ten million shillings.

Other key provisions of the Act include the establishment of a structured system for managing conflicts of interest and Declarations of Income, Assets, and Liabilities (DIALs).

It also mandates the verification of declarations and provides for the forfeiture of unexplained or undeclared assets.

The scope of declarations has been expanded to include reporting entities and responsible commissions, ensuring broader institutional accountability.

Additionally, the Act prohibits public officers from trading with their employers or holding interests in entities that have contracts with public institutions, reinforcing ethical boundaries in public service.

The law also compels public officers to make declarations on all circumstances that may amount to a conflict between their private engagements and public duties. Declarations are required once every two years, within 30 days of assuming office, and within 30 days after leaving office.

EACC has emphasized that the law marks a major milestone in enhancing transparency, accountability, and integrity in public service. The Commission pledged to undertake public awareness campaigns, capacity building, and oversight to ensure full compliance.

“This law strengthens Kenya’s anti-corruption framework by closing loopholes and compelling full disclosure from public officers,” the Commission said in a statement.