Governor dismisses EACC graft report

By FAITH RONOH

Uasin Gishu Governor Jackson Mandago has dismissed findings of the recently released report by Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC).

The report ranked Uasin Gishu County as the most corrupt county in the country.

Mr Mandago faulted EACC for releasing a report that based its findings on a research conducted a year ago, saying it paints a negative image of his government.

“It is makes no sense to release a report whose findings reflect what has been happening in the past one year. What if there has been improvement?” Mandago asked.

Speaking in his office, Mandago questioned the manner in which EACC has been responding to corruption matters in the county, saying the institution is working at a slow pace.

“At the pace EACC is working, I doubt if it is in a position to fight corruption,” said the governor.

He said his government has put up measures to fight graft, adding he will not tolerate the forces of impunity.

He regretted that corruption is eating up too revenue meant to improve service provision, saying anyone working or running a business in the county must be transparent.

Mandago singled out the immigration department in Eldoret town as one of the most corrupt institutions and send officers there a stern warning.

“We also want the national government to come in and help us fight the vice,” said Mandago.

In an effort to crack the whip against graft, the governor has suspended five senior county officers over graft related cases.

“I am putting on notice public workers and traders who break the law and those who fail to meet required standards that they will not be left out. My office is committed to ensuring a corrupt-free county and for this reason we will not spare anyone who breaks the law,” he warned.