Kimaeti ward MCA Jack Wambulwa has raised serious concerns regarding the efforts by some Members of Parliament (MPs) to control the allocation of county funds. Wambulwa has strongly criticized MPs for attempting to divert funds that are meant to support county governments in their infrastructure projects, such as road construction.
Addressing the media, Wambulwa called on MPs to focus on using their existing resources, such as the Constituency Development Fund (CDF), to implement projects in their constituencies, instead of undermining the financial autonomy of county governments.
“I urge MPs not to be greedy, as I hear they want to take control of the maintenance levy funds that were meant for county governments to construct roads. The Senate has passed a resolution that these funds should go to all 47 counties, but we are surprised to see MPs now attempting to seize these funds, despite already having access to KERRA funds and 120 million shillings from the CDF for each constituency—much of which we don’t even see being used. What is their greed about? Why do they want to take control of money that could support the counties?” Wambulwa said.
A Call for Accountability and Vigilance
Wambulwa has urged citizens to be vigilant and ensure that they properly vet their leaders during elections. He emphasized the need to elect leaders who are genuinely committed to serving the public and not those looking to misuse public funds for personal gain.
Wambulwa has called on the public to stand firm against any leader who seeks to undermine the county development process.
“As citizens, let us unite and closely monitor those MPs who support this bill, which would divert funds meant for counties into their own pockets, give them to their friends, and turn themselves into contractors. Let us ensure that when elections come, they are voted out.”
Criticism of Musikoma-Kanduyi Dual Carriage Construction
In addition to his concerns over the diversion of county funds, Wambulwa who also serves as the Chairperson of the Budget Committee in the Bungoma County Assembly, has also criticized the Bungoma County government’s handling of the Musikoma-Kanduyi dual carriage road project. According to Wambulwa, the road was hastily completed and does not meet the required standards.
“I want to appeal to the Executive, including Governor Lusaka, regarding the road from Musikoma to Kanduyi. According to the Bill of Quantities (BQ) issued and as agreed with the contractor, the road has not yet met the required standards to be considered finished. If anyone attempts to introduce corruption into this project, I will rebuke them, and I want to make it clear that we will summon them to answer questions in the County Assembly.”
Wambulwa emphasized the need for the contractor to complete the project properly and meet the quality standards agreed upon. He called for the road to be finalized with proper balancing, ensuring that it is free of potholes.
“Let the contractor complete the final layer and balance the road properly. There should be no standing water anywhere, and the road should not have any potholes.” he added.
