Legacy of Eliud Owalo

  

The former Cabinet Secretary of the Ministry of Information, Communications, and The Digital Economy (MoICDE). His exit scorecard reveals both accomplishments and curious twists. Here's what we found:

1. The "Least Corrupt" Crown:

   - Owalo declared MoICDE the "LEAST CORRUPT" government ministry. However, this title was based on a survey by the EACC, not necessarily hard-earned merit. Sensationalism, perhaps?

2. Shrinking Digital Jobs Conundrum:

   - Initially, his ministry claimed to create 390,000 digital jobs. By the time he left, that number mysteriously dwindled to 152,711. Did jobs vanish into thin air? A scorecard mystery!

3. The Open University of Kenya:

   - Owalo took credit for establishing The Open University of Kenya in 2023. Plot twist: It had been in the works since 2005, and credit belongs to the Education Ministry, not MoICDE.

4. "Re-engineered" Fiber Optic Model:

   - Owalo celebrated "re-engineering" KPLC electricity lines for fiber optic cables. But this idea existed since 2010, predating his tenure.

In fairness, Owalo had genuine accomplishments, but smoke and mirrors also played a role. As tech-savvy readers, let's always fact-check the information out there! 😊

 Let's explore some of the controversies:

1. Nationwide Protests Allegations (2013):

   - In 2013, Owalo was arrested and grilled by security agencies over allegedly planning nationwide protests against the Jubilee government. He was also accused of trying to collude with diplomats, foreign embassies, and the clergy to sabotage the government.

2. Job Creation Numbers Discrepancy:

   - Owalo's ministry initially claimed to have created 390,000 digital jobs, but by the time he exited, the number mysteriously dropped to 152,711. The discrepancy raised eyebrows and left questions unanswered.

3. Open University of Kenya Attribution:

   - Owalo proudly announced the establishment of The Open University of Kenya, but it had been in the works since 2005. Credit for this achievement belongs to the Education Ministry, not MoICDE.

4. Fiber Optic Model Misattribution:

   - Owalo took credit for "re-engineering" KPLC electricity lines for fiber optic cables, but this idea existed since **2010** during the late President Mwai Kibaki's government. Kenya Power had already leveraged its network for fiber optics before Owalo's tenure.

Despite these controversies, Owalo's tenure had genuine accomplishments, but critical scrutiny is essential. 

Transparency plays a crucial role in effective government leadership. Here are some key aspects:

1. Accountability:

   - Transparency ensures that leaders are accountable for their actions. When decisions, finances, and processes are open to scrutiny, it fosters trust and encourages responsible behavior.

2. Public Trust:

   - Transparent leaders build public trust. Citizens feel more confident when they understand how decisions are made, budgets allocated, and policies implemented.

3. Informed Decision-Making:

   - Transparency provides information necessary for informed choices. Citizens can participate in governance, voice concerns, and contribute to policy discussions.

4. Reducing Corruption:

   - Openness discourages corrupt practices. When transactions are visible, it becomes harder to engage in bribery, embezzlement, or favoritism.

5. Stakeholder Engagement:

   - Transparency invites collaboration with civil society, businesses, and other stakeholders. Inclusive decision-making leads to better outcomes.

In summary, transparency promotes t

rust, accountability, and effective governance. 🌟.