The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission has opened investigations into 16 county governors over claims of corruption and misuse of office. Out of the group, five are current governors while the rest are former county chiefs.
They are accused of irregular dealings and the misuse of public money, with the probe expected to reveal how funds meant for counties may have been diverted. According to early findings, the cases involve a total of Sh1.6 billion tied to questionable transactions.
These transactions include inflated contracts, misuse of county budgets, and payments made to ghost suppliers.
Some senior county officials and contractors have also been mentioned in the investigations, raising concerns about collusion in the management of county projects.
The commission has already summoned a number of officials to produce documents and explain their role in the flagged deals.
In addition, some assets linked to those suspected have been frozen in order to protect public funds that could have been lost. This step is aimed at ensuring money is recovered before it is hidden or transferred elsewhere.
EACC officers are working together with other government agencies, including the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, to make sure the cases move quickly. The cooperation between the agencies is meant to strengthen the fight against graft and to ensure that those responsible are held accountable.
The investigations come at a time when many Kenyans have raised concerns about how money allocated to counties is being used. Billions of shillings that should be improving development projects and basic services are instead being lost through corruption.
Citizens continue to complain that while governors push for more funds from the national government, much of what is already sent to the counties does not reach the intended projects.
Roads, hospitals, and schools in many areas remain underfunded despite large allocations being made every financial year.
For the governors currently in office, the investigations could have a big impact on their leadership.
Their ability to govern effectively might be compromised, and the findings could influence their chances in future elections.
Former governors who are under scrutiny also face serious consequences. If found guilty, they may be barred from ever holding public office again.
This could close doors for those seeking political comebacks or new positions in government.
EACC has stated that these investigations are still ongoing and more names could be added as new evidence comes in. The commission has called on county officials to cooperate fully and provide all the information needed to conclude the cases.
The outcome of this probe will be closely watched by the public, as many people want to see real accountability for misuse of devolved funds. If successful, it could send a strong message that corruption in counties will no longer be tolerated.
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