EACC Grills 20 Nakuru County Officials Over Sh27 Million Sports Kit Procurement Scandal

The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has subjected 20 high-ranking officials from Nakuru County to intensive questioning over alleged misconduct involving Sh27 million in public funds. The scandal centers around the procurement of sports kits, which has raised serious concerns about conflict of interest and mismanagement of public resources.

The scrutiny began on Monday, September 2, 2024, at the EACC South Regional Offices in Nakuru. Among those being questioned are key figures from the county’s finance, sports, and procurement departments. The investigation aims to uncover the truth behind claims that companies linked to top county officials were granted contracts and received payments for the supply of substandard sports equipment.

EACC Spokesperson Eric Ngumbi emphasized the gravity of the situation, noting that the Commission recognizes the high public interest in the case. Ngumbi assured that the EACC has prioritized this issue and is committed to prosecuting any individuals found guilty of financial misconduct. He also indicated that the Commission plans to file civil suits to recover any funds misappropriated in this alleged fraudulent deal.

The alleged procurement irregularities came to light when it was discovered that certain companies, allegedly owned by influential county officials, were awarded contracts under questionable circumstances. These companies are suspected of delivering poor-quality equipment, which has exacerbated the public’s frustration over the misuse of taxpayer money.

The EACC’s investigation into Nakuru County’s sports kit procurement scandal is part of a broader probe into corruption across multiple counties. Notably, some of the officials under investigation are also implicated in a separate scandal involving the alleged misuse of Sh373 million in Bomet County. This case, which pertains to the procurement of road construction equipment during the Financial Year 2022-23, has seen 13 Bomet County officials summoned for questioning.

In a letter dated August 30, 2024, the EACC instructed Bomet County Secretary to ensure the 13 officials appear before the Commission between September 9 and September 13. This dual focus on Nakuru and Bomet highlights the EACC’s broader strategy to address systemic corruption and ensure accountability in public procurement processes.

The EACC’s rigorous approach to these cases reflects its ongoing efforts to combat corruption and uphold integrity within Kenya’s public sector. By holding officials accountable and recovering lost funds, the Commission aims to restore public trust and deter future instances of financial misconduct.

As the interviews and statement recordings continue, the EACC remains steadfast in its mission to uncover the full extent of the alleged corruption. The outcome of these investigations will be closely watched, as they have significant implications for governance and public accountability in Kenya.

In conclusion, the EACC’s actions in Nakuru and Bomet counties underscore the importance of transparency and integrity in managing public resources. As the investigations progress, the public eagerly awaits the results, hopeful that justice will prevail and that measures will be put in place to prevent similar scandals in the future.