A study of Karen Residents' Perception of Corruption in Kenya Police with a Special Implication for Discipleship

Abstract

There are few issues that generate reactions like someone being associated with corruption, worse still in a Christian or rather in a religious setting and environment like Kenya. This is because before right thinking human beings, nobody wants to be seen as wicked. The instinct to be right is the first and original position of man's heart according to our maker God Almighty. Evil is an intruder and in second position. In our hearts we love and always choose the best. Even a thief at times when caught in the act of stealing some would say, "I was keeping it safe." Some may say, "I did not give a bribe but a catalyst," which they also call facilitator. To the Police it is called TKK, meaning, 'Toa kitu kidogo," In other words, give something small (bribe). Those who demand TKK generally are Traffic Police on the road, or at the Police Station counter, or Regular Police on patrol. But, to the few high and mighty Police Officers in air-conditioned rooms their meaning of 'TKK" may construe 'Toa Kitu Kikubwa' meaning, give something big (bribe) which has to befit the status or rank. A study of Karen resident's perception of corruption in Kenya Police, with its implication for discipleship seeks to understand this monster called corruption. At the same time, this study seeks to know the causes, the nature, extent and impact of corruption. It Vt~11. then be known the effective interventions in Kenya government, the Church, the Society have made and are able to make in bn.iging an end to this vice. The choice of Karen area was because it represents the farming community since Kenya is basically an agricultural country. Karen also has business people who can afford a bribe if cornered or the need arises to avoid sleeping in Police cells. People are likely to give a bribe also to avoid being taken to court, which is a tedious, time and money consuming process. Karen has residents of all status, races and religious persuasion. The Karen Police area falls within Langata Police Division. Among the constituents of the region are top politicians who are advocating for change with eradication of corruption as their key agenda. The study has three primary strands: 1. The individual encounters and experiences of the researcher who has spent over thirty years in the midst of corrupt elements in Kenya. He has also worked for sixteen years in the Tax arena an area infested with corruption. 2. A literature review that surveys literature from several disciplines 3. Field research The findings indicate that, the majority of the society, given a freehand, would rather not have corruption but like sin many are helpless so they give in to the vice. For graft to be eradicated it would require divine intervention, the government, church and private sector efforts, all working together. This calls for witnessing and discipleship in the Police Force where the need is overwhelming. Certainly like any other human beings, not all Police Officers are corrupt, though most are perceived to be by society.