Bungoma Governor Lusaka Threatens Resignation Over Sh25 Million Madaraka Day Expenditure Controversy
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Bungoma Governor Kenneth Lusaka has threatened to resign if found guilty of alleged financial misconduct involving the purchase of flowers worth Sh25 million for the Madaraka Day celebrations.
Speaking at a university students’ convention in Tongaren constituency, Lusaka stated, “I am ready to resign if I am found culpable.” His remarks come amid growing criticism over the county’s expenditure on the national holiday, which totaled Sh148 million.
The controversy began when anti-government protesters, led by Gen-Z activists and civil society groups, stormed the governor’s office demanding an explanation for the excessive spending. Critics have questioned why such a large sum was allocated to a State function, traditionally funded by the national government.
Governor Lusaka admitted that Sh25 million was spent on beautification but clarified that the funds covered more than just flowers. According to Lusaka, the money was also used for planting ornamental trees, installing dustbins, erecting metallic sculptures, and clearing drainage systems to enhance the county’s appearance for the celebrations.
The governor has defended the expenditure, asserting that it was necessary to present Bungoma in its best light for the significant event. However, pressure is mounting for him to disclose the details of the tender process, including the contractor’s name, the advertisement date, and the bidders involved.
Further complicating matters, civil society organizations have raised concerns over the county government’s management of finances, particularly its operation of over 300 bank accounts in local commercial banks. They argue that this multiplicity of accounts could obscure financial transactions and facilitate the siphoning of public funds.
Controller of Budget Margaret Nyakang’o recently revealed that Bungoma has 352 commercial bank accounts. Lusaka confirmed this, explaining that 165 of these accounts are for health facilities, four for revenue collection, 152 for vocational training centers, and nine for sub-county imprest accounts.
The governor recently appeared before the Senate Standing Committee on Finance to address these allegations. He has called for patience, stating that investigations by various state agencies are already underway.
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