Civil groups have called for accountability from the government in handling Covid-19 funds and Personal Protective Equipment (PPEs). The government has come under fire following revelations that funds disbursed and availed towards handling Covid-19 cases and management were misused and looted. PPEs were also misused.
Speaking to the press, officials of more than 15 civil groups led by Transparency International and Kenya Human Rights Commission faulted the government for lacking accountability. The Deputy Executive Director of KHRC Davis Malombe the lack of transparency by government agencies charged with managing Covid-19 was concerning and created loopholes which led to overpricing of commodities, purchase of substandard PPEs, embezzlement of donated equipment including PPEs among others.
He said room for public participation and principles of accountability on the whole Covid-19 management situation should’ve been adhered to, “Citizens have the right to participate in the making of decisions that affect their lives.” The lobby groups have recommender that Treasury CS Ukur Yattani should publish detailed expenditure information on all funds advanced for Covid-19 response through donations, donor grants, loans, salary cuts for civil servants, and allocation of budgets and other sources by all recipients including the national and County governments.
They said Health CS Mutahi Kagwe must provide full disclosure on the distribution of PPEs acquired by the government whether purchased or donated, giving full details on sources and recipients. Further, they’ve called on all County governments to publish detailed expenditure information on resources received for Covid-19 response efforts.