Corruption in Kenya Evolves for a Digital Age

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The article describes a rather innovative variety of corruption that was observed in Kenya in 2016. In this case, the corrupted police officers utilized the digital transaction system as a tool for bribery (Aglionby par. 2). What is especially interesting about this particular case is the flexibility demonstrated by the corrupted individuals. Traditionally, innovative technologies are perceived as hard to implement and sell to the customer base.

This is especially true for developing countries, where the level of technical literacy is thought to below. At the same time, it is obvious that the interested parties are quick to catch up with the progress regardless of the legality of their actions. Besides, the case contradicts the theoretical “corruption-proof” character of digital transactions projected by the experts (Arnold par. 8). The predictions about the emerging markets are not uncommon to be over-optimistic (“The Rally” par. 4). The Kenyan case can be interpreted as a warning against such carelessness.

Another interesting question is whether the law could change the situation for the better. First of all, it is worth noting that in this case, the corrupted element is a law enforcement organization, which already undermines the effectiveness of the legal intervention. Besides, e-commerce is a relatively unexplored field, with many issues residing in the “grey zone” in terms of the legislature. In other words, the legal procedures are either ineffective or incompatible with the digital realm.

This is not to say that the situation is hopeless – after all, it has been addressed. Nevertheless, it is important to recognize the limitations when trying to predict the outcome. The law could and would play a role in a similar case. However, the effect would not be immediate and will most likely not be able to catch up with the flexibility of the perpetrators.