Isiolo Governor Abdi Guyo Defends Erroneous Ksh.1 Million Expenditure on Soda

By Editor On Jul 19, 2024

By Shadrack Nyakoe

Governor Abdi Guyo of Isiolo County has come under heavy scrutiny after it was reported that he spent a whopping KSh. 1 million on a single crate of soda.

This revelation has sparked outrage among Kenyans and fueled a wave of criticism against the local government’s spending habits.

Kenyans are questioning the integrity of public officials and demanding greater transparency and accountability.

According to a source, the extravagant expenditure was uncovered during a grilling session by the Senate’s public accounts committee (PAC).

The incident has led to a larger conversation about governance and transparency in Counties.

“This reflects a broader issue of corruption and mismanagement within the government. The misuse of public funds for personal gain or frivolous expenditures has long been a problem in Kenya,” wrote a Gen Z youth on an X space meeting.

Governor Guyo has however rubbished off the allegations stating that he was misquoted and a video edited of him speaking from different events to tarnish his name.

“Our attention has been drawn to a selectively edited video clip currently circulating online. which questions the legitimate expenditure of KSh. 1 million on hospitality services. This misrepresentation, including remarks by Senator Kajwang, has misleadingly reduced the matter to a claim of spending on soda. To set the record straight, the expenditure in question pertains to comprehensive catering services procured from a reputable local hotel during the 8th Edition of The Desert Wheel Race 2019, themed “Disability and Tourism Promoting Accessible Tourism,” held in Isiolo County from October 10th to 12th, 2019. The event aimed to promote inclusive tourism opportunities for individuals with disabilities,” he stated in a press statement.

Governor Abdi Guyo said the circulating video omits critical details regarding the extensive services provided, which included a buffet for 300 people at KSh. 1.500 per person and assorted beverage drinks for the event.

“For full transparency, it is essential to highlight that the total expenditure of KSh. 1,050.000 was incurred to ensure the success and inclusivity of this important community event. In my capacity as the current County boss, I was addressing an audit query regarding expenditures from the FY 2019/2020. The context and facts were presented transparently during the review,” he said.

Governor Abdi Guyo further claims that the misrepresentation is part of a coordinated misinformation campaign led by Senator Fatuma Dullo of Isiolo County.

“Utilizing bloggers to spread these injuriously misleading and false reports, this campaign aims to unjustly tarnish the integrity of my administration. We implore the public and all stakeholders to consider the full context and verifiable facts of the situation. Our commitment to transparency, accountability, and the diligent service. to Isiolo County’s residents remains unwavering,” he emphasized.

The Gen Z youth have vowed to visit the county governments and governors involved in corruption schemes.