Switzerland vows to return stolen assets to Kenya

By Andrew Wasike

NAIROBI, Kenya

Switzerland and Kenya on Monday signed a memorandum of understanding for the return of illegally acquired assets and money stolen from the East African country through illegal, corrupt means.

Speaking at a joint press briefing after bilateral talks with Kenyan leader Uhuru Kenyatta, Swiss Confederation President Alain Berset, who is on a three-day visit, said that his country will support Kenya’s war on corruption following the recent theft of $100 million from the National Youth Service.

“I am extremely pleased that today we signed a framework for the return of assets from crime and corruption to Kenya,” said Berset.

“This will allow Switzerland to return financial assets that have been blocked. Switzerland and Kenya enjoy a common interest in fighting corruption.”

President Kenyatta for his part reiterated that his government will crack down on all corrupt officials. Last month Kenyatta said that all public officials will undergo lie detector tests and be vetted afresh.

“We have agreed on a framework on returning the money, actions for returning the proceeds has begun,” said Kenyatta.

“My administration has shown that corruption cannot, and, will not, be tolerated.”

The two countries also said that they are also working on an agreement to tackle double taxation.