The Auditor General has uncovered a staggering case of financial mismanagement in Machakos County, revealing that the county government has been operating an astonishing 317 bank accounts to siphon taxpayer money. This shocking revelation has put the administration of Governor Wavinya Ndeti under intense scrutiny.
Auditor General Nancy Gathungu disclosed that the illegal operation of these bank accounts was a coordinated effort by Governor Ndeti and her Finance and Revenue Management County Executive Committee (CEC) member, Onesmus Kuyu. The duo allegedly used these accounts as conduits to embezzle public funds, exploiting the county’s financial system to their advantage.
“Of the 317 bank accounts in Machakos County, 24 are under the Department of Water, 109 are in the Department of Finance and Revenue Collection, while the remaining accounts are spread across various other departments,” said Auditor General Gathungu.
The Auditor General highlighted the suspicious nature of this arrangement, noting that it is highly irregular for a devolved unit to manage such an excessive number of bank accounts. According to financial best practices, a maximum of 10 bank accounts would be sufficient for the county’s operations.
The findings have raised serious concerns about the financial oversight in Machakos County and have prompted calls for immediate action to address the rampant corruption.
The revelation also casts a shadow over the leadership of Governor Wavinya Ndeti, who is now facing pressure to account for the misuse of public funds under her administration.
The Auditor General’s report is expected to lead to further investigations by relevant authorities, and there are growing demands for accountability and transparency in the management of county resources.
This exposé has not only shocked residents of Machakos County but has also drawn nationwide attention to the critical issue of corruption within Kenya’s devolved units.
As the situation unfolds, the public will be closely watching how the county leadership and national oversight bodies respond to these grave allegations.
