The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has flagged procurement irregularities within the Turkana County Government, revealing that a lucrative tender was awarded to a firm linked to one of its officials.
In its latest quarterly report, the EACC disclosed that the Clerk of the County Assembly collaborated with the county government to award a tender for air travel services to Reapak Travel Agency, a company where he serves as a director.
The commission’s investigations also uncovered that officers in the county’s Finance Department collectively approved and processed payments without verifying the supporting documents, raising concerns that prompted further investigations.
On June 3, 2024, the EACC forwarded a file to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), recommending charges against those involved in the procurement process. This includes the Clerk of Turkana County Assembly, the Procurement Officer, the Deputy Clerk, the Principal Finance Officer, the Principal Internal Auditor, the Senior Accountant, the Director of Finance, an agent of Reapak Travel Agency Limited, and the Directors of Reapak Travel Agency Limited.
The recommended charges include eight offenses, such as five counts of abuse of office, conspiracy to commit an economic crime, unlawful acquisition of public property, and conflict of interest, all in violation of the Anti-Corruption and Economic Crimes Act of 2003.
The EACC’s report indicates that it is awaiting the DPP’s response on the matter.
This revelation comes at a time when President William Ruto’s administration has committed to tackling graft and conflicts of interest by adopting and enhancing technology systems to improve accountability.
In July 2024, President Ruto urged parliament to pass the Conflict of Interest Bill, 2023, which he argued would bolster anti-corruption efforts and prevent public or state officers from misusing their positions for personal gain or to secure tenders.
“I want to encourage Parliament to expedite the Conflict of Interest Bill that will support our anti-corruption measures, especially in relation to public officers,” President Ruto said in KICC on July 9, 2024.
