Lusaka in a spot over alleged Sh35m expenditure on garbage collection

Sirisia MP John Waluke addresses mourners during the burial of Mzee Nathan Sirengo on April 19, 2025. [Juliet Omelo, Standard]

Sirisia MP John Waluke has accused Bungoma Governor Kenneth Lusaka's administration, of allegedly spending an estimated Sh35 million monthly on garbage collection, terming it gross misuse of public resources.

Speaking during the burial of Mzee Nathan Sirengo in his constituency over the weekend, Waluke claimed that county officials were looting public funds under the guise of waste management.

“Bungoma County towns cannot generate the amount of garbage that justifies expenditure of Sh35 million monthly,” he said.

“In fact, I have never even seen Sirisia town being cleaned,” he added.

The lawmaker further alleged that corruption was widespread within the county government and urged the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) to investigate and prosecute those involved.

“Almost the entire County Assembly has failed in their oversight mandate. Many MCAs are sleeping on the job. They should be pushing for better use of funds in areas such as healthcare instead of remaining silent on questionable expenditure,” the MP said.

Waluke also called on the youth in Bungoma to demand accountability through peaceful protest.

“Speak up. Storm Lusaka’s office and ask him to account for the money meant to support youths and persons with disabilities,” he said.

He further claimed that fertiliser branded with Bungoma County insignia was intercepted while being transported illegally to Uganda, saying, “Devolution was meant to create opportunities, not enrich a few.”

But Governor Lusaka dismissed the claims as “unfounded and politically motivated."

“All county expenditure, including those related to garbage collection, undergo rigorous procurement and audit processes in compliance with public finance regulations. We welcome scrutiny but caution against reckless politicisation of service delivery,” he said.

He challenged Waluke to present evidence to the relevant authorities saying that the county government was open to lawful probe.

“Those fighting me and trying to destroy my reputation know very well that I won’t be vying for any political seat in 2027. But because they suspect I may play a crucial role in shaping national politics, they are trying to bring me down,” Dr Lusaka said.