Rift Valley leaders oppose plans to release billions of shillings to parastatals dogged by graft

Some Rift Valley leaders have opposed a plan to release billions of shillings to parastatals dogged by corruption. 

Speaking ahead of the planned release of Sh2 billion to the National Cereals and Produce Board, the leaders said the Government risked losing more funds.

Uasin Gishu Governor Jackson Mandago (pictured) said the Government should wait until new board members were appointed. 

“The Government should not repeat the same mistake of releasing money to parastatals that have a history of embezzling farmers’ money,” said Mr Mandago during a fundraising at Kipsitet Day Secondary School at the weekend. 

He added that board members of the affected parastatals should be compelled to step aside first. 

“That is the only way the country will have confidence that the money meant for farmers will get to the intended recipients.”

Affected parastatals

The leaders present during the fundraising included Energy Cabinet Secretary Charles Keter, Kericho Governor Paul Chepkwony, Kericho Senator Aaron Cheruiyot and MPs Kipsengeret Koros (Soin/Sigowet) and Hillary Koskei (Kipkelion West).

They said they would not accept the privatisation of several companies such as New Kenya Cooperative Creameries without involving county governments. 

“Most of the companies that have been listed for privatisation have been doing devolved functions. Therefore, before privatisation is done, the Privatisation Commission must sit down with governors from the counties where the companies and assets are located,” said Mandago. 

Mr Chepkwony opposed the planned privatisation of Muhuroni Sugar Company, saying a portion of its land belonged to Kericho residents.