Nairobi: Residents of Vihiga have raised concerns following reports that the county allegedly spent Sh5 million of taxpayers' money to throw a housewarming party for the local assembly speaker.
According to Kenya News Agency, the issue emerged when Governor Dr. Wilber Ottichilo appeared before the Public Accounts Committee, chaired by Homa Bay Senator Moses Kajwang. Lawmakers sought clarification on the flagged expenditure, sparking debate over accountability and financial management.
The county leadership faced scrutiny before the Senate Committee on County Public Investments and Special Funds, as further queries arose from the Auditor General's reports concerning water and sewerage, particularly the operations of Amatsi Water Services Company.
Senators pressed the governor on the prioritization of public funds, highlighting struggles faced by residents in accessing clean water and other essential services.
While the hearings focused on Amatsi, senators questioned the county's preference for expenditures, where non-essential activities like celebrations were prioritized over basic needs.
Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi expressed concern over high levels of non-revenue water, unsupported expenditures, and weak internal controls. He noted that Amatsi recorded water losses of approximately Sh89 million, representing 44% of non-revenue water.
'Strategies that do not yield results cannot justify such massive losses, and the committee remains vigilant in ensuring accountability,' Osotsi added, urging immediate corrective action.
The committee dismissed explanations centered on aging infrastructure and future plans lacking concrete outcomes, raising concerns over unresolved audit issues, board allowances, revenue systems, and governance breaches.
The public has also voiced dissatisfaction on social media platforms, questioning county spending priorities amid challenges in accessing clean water, healthcare, and reliable infrastructure. Calls for oversight institutions to take action against mismanagement were prevalent.
However, some residents urged patience, advising waiting for investigation outcomes before drawing conclusions.
Dr. Ottichilo reiterated his administration's commitment to transparency and responsible management of public funds, maintaining that all expenditures follow approved budgets and procurement laws.
Last year, the county signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Kenya (ICPAK) to enhance accountability and public finance, aiming for an Unqualified Opinion in the Financial Year 2024/2025.
The Senate is set to analyze submissions from the Vihiga County Government and issue recommendations to strengthen financial accountability and improve service delivery, reflecting public demand for integrity and transparency in the use of devolved funds across the country.