A recent investigation has uncovered troubling financial irregularities in Mombasa County during the time when Hassan Joho, who is now the Cabinet Secretary for Mining and Blue Economy, was serving as the governor.
The report obtained by leaked.co.ke states that over Ksh 7.1 billion was lost between 2013 and 2015, raising serious concerns about how public funds were managed during Joho’s tenure.
The report details various schemes through which the funds were misappropriated.
Among the major issues highlighted are procurement fraud, where contracts were allegedly awarded to suppliers who either did not exist or failed to deliver the promised goods and services.
Payments were also made for services that cannot be traced, making it difficult to account for where the money actually went.
The year 2015 stands out as particularly problematic, with the highest amount of money reportedly disappearing during this period.
The loss of such a substantial amount of money is seen as a blow to the county’s development, as these funds could have been used to improve infrastructure, healthcare, education, and other critical services.
Hassan Joho, who served as governor from 2013 to 2022, has been a prominent figure in Kenyan politics, known for his strong influence and business connections.
However, these allegations are now casting a shadow over his political career, especially in his current role as the Cabinet Secretary for Mining and Blue Economy.
Many are calling for a thorough investigation to determine the full extent of the misappropriation and to hold those responsible accountable.
The current administration in Mombasa, led by Governor Abdulswamad Nassir, is also dealing with financial issues of its own.
Recently, county officials were questioned by the Senate regarding the disappearance of Ksh 54 million from several county funds, indicating that the financial mismanagement in Mombasa may be an ongoing issue.
The new administration faces the challenge of restoring public trust and ensuring that such irregularities do not continue.
This situation has reignited the debate over the need for stronger oversight and accountability in county governments across Kenya.
There is growing pressure on the national government and anti-corruption bodies to take decisive action.
The loss of Ksh 7.1 billion is a stark reminder of the importance of transparency and good governance, especially in managing public resources meant for the development and welfare of citizens.
The call for justice and accountability is louder than ever, and the outcome of this investigation will be crucial in determining the future of governance in Mombasa and beyond.
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