Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) and Director of Criminal Investigations have been directed by Members of National Assembly to commence investigation on all the accounting officers who foresaw the loss of money in their ministries.
MPs have indicted Health, Education, Interior, Public Service, Devolution, Defense and Agriculture and want them investigated.
For instance, for the Education ministry, the committee wants the then head of Public Service, Amb Francis Muthaura and Prof Nick Wanjohi probed for awarding scholarship of Sh25.5 million to two relatives of former President Mwai Kibaki who studied in Australia without any written proof.
The powerful Public Accounts Committee chaired by Opiyo Wandayi wants those responsible to be held personally liable for any loss of money.
“If the holder of a public office, including a political office, directs or approves the use of public funds contrary to law or instructions, the person is liable for any loss arising from that use and shall make good the loss, whether the person remains the holder of the office or not,’’ read the report.
According to People Daily, the Wandayi-led committee wants the EACC and DCI to investigate those responsible for the irregular award of the Sh3.5 billion comprehensive group insurance cover for police and prison officers.
British American Insurance Company allegedly quoted the lowest figure of Sh629 million but was disqualified and regarded as unresponsive because the form of tender was not duly completed as required. Pioneer Assurance Company was eventually awarded the tender.
“It has not been possible for the committee to make a determination on whether the process, in totality, was irregular or not. The committee, therefore, directs the relevant investigative agencies to initiate thorough and conclusive investigations into the matter and make appropriate recommendations,” reads the report.
Additionally, Auditor General has been directed to probe Interior ministry for spending Sh8 billion on the purchase of goods and services from local and foreign suppliers.
The committee wants Ouko to carry out an audit on letters of credit used for procurement of goods and services and present a report.