Ethical leadership practice: the foundation of political and economic development in Kenya.
Date
2011
Authors
Minja, David
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Strathmore University
Abstract
The subject of ethical practices in Kenya has been a hot one for the last two decades.
Unethical practices in organizations and at the political arena have been widely
reported in the wake of many high-profile management and financial scandals. Even
with the establishment of the Kenya Anti-Corruption Commission and laws and
regulations aimed at curbing corruption, the situation has not improved significantly.
Leaders are coming under increasing scrutiny because of the role they play in
managing ethical conduct and modelling ethical behaviour. Failure of political
leaders and executives to provide moral leadership has led to citizens being
disappointed and national goals remaining largely unmet. Increasingly so, recent
debates about issuance of citizenship certificates may leave many citizens
disenfranchised; all of which have a major influence on political and economic
development.
Theory and research suggest that leaders should, and do, influence ethical behaviour.
This paper explores theoretical arguments why leaders should play an important role
of influencing ethical behaviour and why it is imperative for them to model the
desired behaviour. The paper explores ethical practices from Aristotle’s perspective,
cognitive moral development and social learning theories. This paper also tries to
argue that laws alone cannot ‘convert’ the society that has developed and perfected
the art of unethical practices. A new way of thinking is necessary, that will involve
and empower everyone to start thinking and behaving in an ethical way.
The paper therefore provides a prescriptive model of addressing ethical dilemmas in
the public service in order to promote nation building. Several recommendations
applicable not only to the public service but also to other Kenyan sectors have been
made and it is believed that if adopted will go a long way in transforming leaders and
followers into ethically responsible people who will foster nation building. The work
of transformation begins with leaders who are themselves transformed and in turn
mentor others to produce the desired behaviour. In this way, political and economic
development in Kenya will cease to be a mirage.
Description
Paper presented at Strathmore University 2011 Ethics Conference
Keywords
Leadership, Ethics, Politics, Economy, Kenya