The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has initiated an investigation into allegations of embezzlement of public funds by officials of the National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NGCDF) in a constituency in Nakuru County. The probe centers on the procurement process of three school buses, with accusations that the prices were significantly inflated.
The allegations suggest that the officials involved purchased the buses at an exorbitant price of Ksh 9.2 million each, whereas the market value of each bus is purportedly Ksh 7 million. This discrepancy has raised suspicions of corruption and financial mismanagement within the NGCDF.
EACC spokesperson Eric Ngumbi confirmed the ongoing investigation but declined to provide specific details, citing the sensitive nature of the probe. “Yes, the Commission is seized of this matter, which is under active investigation, but we cannot discuss details at this stage,” Ngumbi stated.
The investigation gained traction following a letter from the EACC to the CDF Manager, a copy of which was seen by the Star. In the letter, EACC has summoned 35 individuals to appear for questioning at the EACC South Rift Regional Office located at Assumption Centre, 5th Floor, Moi Road, Nakuru. These individuals are expected to provide critical information and assist in the ongoing investigations.
The summons have been scheduled for different dates between July 25 and August 2, 2024, indicating the urgency and breadth of the investigation. The letter, authored by EACC South Rift Regional Manager Ignatius Wekesa, underscores the importance of the cooperation of the summoned individuals in unraveling the truth behind the alleged embezzlement.
“To assist the Commission with the investigations, you are requested to inform the officers listed below to appear at the EACC South Rift Regional Office located at Assumption Centre 5th Floor, Moi Road,” the letter reads in part.
The EACC’s swift action reflects its commitment to ensuring transparency and accountability in the use of public funds. The investigation into the inflated procurement prices of the school buses underscores the Commission’s resolve to combat corruption at all levels of government.
This case adds to the growing list of corruption investigations handled by the EACC, highlighting the endemic nature of graft in various sectors of public administration. The outcome of this investigation will be closely watched by stakeholders and the public, as it holds significant implications for the fight against corruption in Kenya.
Public trust in the management of the NGCDF and other public resources is at stake, and the EACC’s findings will play a crucial role in either restoring confidence or exposing further areas of concern. As the investigation proceeds, it remains to be seen how the implicated individuals will respond and what further revelations might emerge.
The EACC’s proactive approach serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts to safeguard public resources and the importance of vigilance in holding public officials accountable. The public and relevant authorities will be keenly awaiting the outcome of the probe, which promises to shed light on the extent of the alleged misappropriation and set a precedent for future cases of corruption.
