Machakos deputy governor to appear before EACC over graft claims

Machakos Deputy Governor Bernard Kiala has been summoned to appear before the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) this afternoon over claims that he diverted irrigation and water supply materials worth Sh23 million meant for the community to his farm.

Machakos Governor Alfred Mutua had previously accused his deputy of diverting water pipes worth Sh13 million meant for a water project in Kibaoni, Mwala sub-Location to his farm in Masinga where he had initiated a personal irrigation scheme worth Sh15 million.

The Machakos governor further accused his deputy of accepting bribes, claiming that he manipulates the tendering process to favour certain individuals and companies.

He further condemned Kiala for dragging the county behind instead of championing development.

“As the governor of Machakos, it is my responsibility to protect the people of Machakos from greedy officials and to expose those whose behavior is unacceptable,” he stated.

On his part, Kiala rubbished the accusations and accused Mutua of playing cheap politics, adding that if he had any evidence of the allegations then he should present it to the police.

Last year, Mutua put EACC on the spot for delaying in acting on the allegations against Kiala that had been forwarded to them.

“We have provided all the information we have to the relevant bodies. I urge them to move with speed and investigate the issue of corruption and abuse of office and take appropriate action,” he said.