Top KeRRA Officials Targeted in Raid Over Sh500M Tender Scandal

The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has launched a probe into two senior officials at the Kenya Rural Roads Authority (KeRRA).

They are accused of embezzling over Sh500 million through fraudulent procurement practices.

This scandal highlights a broader issue of rampant corruption within KeRRA under the leadership of Philemon Kandie.

Allegations Against Top KeRRA Officials

Mutambu Kilonzi, the regional accountant for Lamu County, and Joseph Kimata, the regional director for Kirinyaga County, are at the center of the investigation.

Kilonzi allegedly awarded tenders to proxy companies owned by his family, resulting in payments exceeding Sh216 million. Kimata is accused of awarding over Sh311 million to companies linked to a friend.

Documents reveal that between 2016 and 2023, Kilonzi facilitated payments to four companies: Felia Company Ltd, Kife Company Ltd, Joekin Company Ltd, and Trinam Company Ltd.

Notably, Felia and Kife are registered in the name of Kilonzi’s wife, while Joekin and Trinam are under a relative’s name.

A History of Corruption

Kimata’s actions are equally troubling. He oversaw payments amounting to Sh311 million to Fidelis Mumbi, who directed four companies involved in the scheme.

This includes payments for projects that failed to meet necessary standards, indicating a systematic approach to siphoning funds. Kandie, the current DG of KeRRA, has faced numerous accusations of corruption and misuse of taxpayer funds.

Activists have petitioned for his removal, citing his connection with powerful political figures who protect him from accountability.

A court ruling last year deemed Kandie’s appointment unconstitutional, yet he continues to hold office and engage in dubious practices.

Calls for Accountability

Francis Awino, president of the Bunge la Mwananchi organization, has been vocal in demanding Kandie’s resignation. He argues that Kandie’s actions constitute a gross violation of constitutional laws and public trust.

Awino’s petition seeks to have Kandie declared unfit for public office due to ongoing misappropriation of funds. She claims are backed by the Auditor General’s reports, which confirm irregularities in tender awards and financial management at KeRRA.

Despite facing multiple allegations, Kandie has not vacated his position, continuing to influence tender processes that favor higher bids over more cost-effective options.

What Next After The Arrest of Top KeRRA Officials?

The ongoing investigation into Kilonzi and Kimata is just the tip of the iceberg. As the EACC delves deeper into KeRRA’s operations, it is crucial for the government to prioritize transparency and accountability.

Only through rigorous enforcement of anti-corruption measures can public trust be restored and taxpayer money safeguarded from further misuse.