NAIROBI, August 10, 2024 – Kenya’s SACCO Societies Regulatory Authority [ SASRA ] has introduced a Whistleblowing Policy aimed at addressing misconduct at all levels of SACCO operations. This policy underscores SASRA’s commitment to fostering good governance and nurturing an ethical organisational culture.
The policy is applicable to Board members and all employees. Compliance with its principles is mandatory for continued Board membership and employment. Breaches of the policy may result in resignation for Board members or termination for employees.
Individuals—including the public, employees, and Board members—who suspect that a Board member or employee has acted contrary to this policy are encouraged to report their concerns to the Board.
This policy is grounded in the Constitution of Kenya, 2010, which upholds national values and principles of governance, and is aligned with Chapter Six on Leadership and Integrity, the Public Officers and Ethics Act, 2003, and the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Act, among other relevant laws.
SASRA emphasises that every SACCO Board member and employee has a personal responsibility to understand and adhere to the policy, including reporting any known or suspected breaches.
Under this policy, a whistleblower is defined as anyone who reports concerns about suspected misconduct, dishonest or illegal activities, or failures to act. This includes Board members, Authority employees, contractors, suppliers, voluntary workers, or members of the public.
Employees are encouraged to report concerns to their immediate line manager as soon as possible. Depending on the issue’s severity and sensitivity, concerns may also be reported to any senior manager or the Ethics Compliance Officer. Whistleblower reports can be directed to the Chief Executive Officer or the Chairperson of the Board as needed.
The Board must ensure that an independent party is available to receive reports that cannot be appropriately handled through standard channels. This independent party may include the Commission on Administrative Justice or another entity designated by the Board.
Board members should raise concerns with the Chairperson of the Board or the designated independent party. Members of the public can report concerns to the Commission on Administrative Justice, the designated independent party, or the Chairperson of the Board or the responsible audit committee.
Whistleblowers may choose to remain anonymous if they wish. The policy guarantees protection against retaliation for those who report violations in good faith. However, false allegations made with malicious intent will lead to disciplinary action and potential legal consequences.
A secure box is available for anonymous written reports, accessible only by the authorized independent party or the Ethics Compliance Officer. The Board is responsible for ensuring that investigations are conducted by an independent and experienced team to protect the Authority’s interests.
In cases involving financial impropriety or corruption, the appropriate government agency will be engaged. This referral does not preclude disciplinary action under SASRA’s procedures.
SASRA is dedicated to protecting whistleblowers from mistreatment, ensuring that employees are not subjected to adverse treatment from colleagues due to their disclosures.
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