Nyamira Governor Amos Nyaribo is facing scrutiny from the Senate, with calls for his appearance before the Whole House over governance concerns and audit queries related to Ksh 5.58 billion in expenditures. The Senate has raised alarm over alleged mismanagement in the Nyamira County Assembly, which has reportedly seen its affairs handled outside the designated legislative space.
Nyamira Senator Okong’o Mogeni has sought the intervention of the Senate, citing a governance crisis that has paralyzed legislative operations in the county. According to Mogeni, the county assembly’s ability to function effectively has been compromised, necessitating urgent action from the national legislature.
Senators have accused Governor Nyaribo of deliberately undermining oversight in Nyamira, arguing that he must be held accountable for his administration’s financial and governance lapses. The Senate’s intervention aims to restore order in the county’s legislative operations and address concerns regarding transparency in the management of public funds.
In a separate session, Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja was grilled by the Senate Committee on Energy over a recent debt dispute between Nairobi County and the Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC). The dispute escalated into actions that brought the county government into disrepute, prompting senators to demand explanations from Sakaja’s administration regarding the handling of financial obligations to KPLC.
Meanwhile, the National Assembly Committee on Appointments has until April 24 to vet and submit its report on the suitability of two cabinet secretary nominees: Geoffrey Ruto and Hanna Wendot Cheptumo. Their appointments are part of an ongoing government reshuffle aimed at bolstering various ministries with competent leadership.
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula has also directed other relevant parliamentary committees to vet permanent secretary and ambassadorial nominees. These committees are expected to table their reports by April 23, allowing time for debate and approval before final appointments are made.
The unfolding events highlight the growing role of parliamentary oversight in ensuring accountability at both the county and national levels. With the Senate’s increasing scrutiny of county governments, governors across the country may face heightened demands for transparency and responsible governance.
