David Ochieng, the Member of Parliament for Ugenya, has called for an extensive review of all Public-Private Partnership (PPP) projects in Kenya. This call for action comes amid growing concerns about potential mismanagement and corruption linked to these partnerships. Ochieng’s remarks, delivered at a function where he commissioned several local projects funded by the Constituency Development Fund (CDF), reflect a broader unease regarding the integrity of major national projects.
Speaking at the Ukwala East location chief’s office in Siranga trading centre, Ochieng, who also leads the Movement for Democracy and Growth (MDG) party, expressed frustration over what he perceives as parliament’s complacency following coalition government formations. He accused lawmakers of becoming ineffective and silent on critical issues once a coalition is established. Ochieng’s comments reflect a broader sentiment that parliamentarians often become passive when their political parties or coalitions are in power, thereby failing to hold the government accountable.
“Every time a coalition happens, like the one we have seen in the past one month, parliament goes rogue and becomes senile,” Ochieng lamented. His criticism underscores a recurring concern that the legislative body is not assertive enough in safeguarding public resources and ensuring transparent governance.
Ochieng’s call for a fresh vetting of PPP projects is driven by his belief that there is a significant risk of Kenya losing investments to unscrupulous individuals or entities. He specifically challenged President William Ruto to spearhead an independent and transparent review process. “We do not want a situation where our country’s assets are being sold cheaply to people who are dubious and shadowy,” he emphasized.
A key focus of Ochieng’s critique is the proposed lease of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) to the Indian firm Adani. He has called for the immediate cancellation of this deal, arguing that due process, including opening the tender to other bidders, must be adhered to. This stance reflects concerns about whether the lease agreement was conducted with the necessary transparency and fairness.
Additionally, Ochieng has raised questions about another reported deal involving Adani, specifically its alleged mandate to manage the Kenya Electricity Transmission Corporation (KETRACO). He urged the government to provide clear and accurate information regarding this matter to dispel any doubts and maintain public trust.
Ochieng’s remarks resonate with a broader call for vigilance and accountability in the management of Kenya’s resources. He urged citizens to remain alert and actively participate in combating corruption, highlighting the role of the public in preventing the misappropriation of national assets.
During the same event, Ochieng also took the opportunity to showcase tangible benefits from local development initiatives funded by the CDF. He launched several projects, including laboratories at Sega Township and Hafumbre secondary schools, and chief’s offices at Karadolo West sub-location and Ukwala East location. These projects aim to enhance educational facilities and administrative services in the Ugenya constituency, reflecting his commitment to grassroots development despite his broader concerns about national-level governance.
Ochieng’s call for reform and transparency in PPP projects underscores a critical moment for Kenya as it grapples with governance challenges. His stance not only highlights ongoing issues within the PPP framework but also serves as a reminder of the need for robust oversight mechanisms to protect public assets and ensure that development projects serve the best interests of the Kenyan people.
As discussions on these issues continue, Ochieng’s advocacy for an independent vetting process and his demand for greater transparency stand as significant contributions to the ongoing debate about governance and accountability in Kenya.
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