Senate writes to Treasury over counties' funds

The Senate has written to Treasury asking that funds to four counties whose governors snubbed summonses are blocked until they appear before the House watchdog committee to respond to audit queries.

Governors Isaac Ruto (Bomet), Mwangi Wa Iria (Murang'a), Jack Ranguma (Kisumu) and William Kabogo (Kiambu) are accused of snubbing the Senate Public Accounts and Investment committee to answers to financial concerns raised in the Auditor General's report.

The committee chairman Senator Boni Khalwale (Kakamega) moved a motion in the Senate to prevent Treasury Cabinet Secretary Henry Rotich from disbursing funds to the four counties and Controller of Budgets Agnes Odhiambo from authorising withdrawals. Dr Khalwale said he is not aware of the contents of the letter but it is the best thing to do under the circumstances.

"There is no negotiation on this matter. We want to know how public funds are utilised," said Kipchumba Murkomen (Elgeyo/Marakwet).

Senate Clerk Jeremiah Nyengenye told The Standard that it is upon his office to advise the relevant Cabinet Secretaries on the resolutions of the House for implementation.

"My office is required to write and advise the relevant Cabinet Secretary on the House resolution and he or she is required to implement the same within 60 days after which, a report back is required," said Nyengenye.

Governor Ruto, who is also the chairman of the Council of Governors had downplayed the Senate's move, saying they are not refusing to be held accountable but differ on the procedure followed. However, Wa Iria accused Senators of trying to intimidate them.