An investigation conducted by the Kericho County Assembly has uncovered the manner in which Sh 14.5 million, raised by Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua for the victims of the Londiani accident, was distributed. Deputy President Gachagua had organized the fundraiser following a tragic accident on June 30 that resulted in 53 fatalities and 24 injuries.
The County Assembly recommended the removal from office of six senior county government officers due to their involvement in alleged misappropriation and negligence. Among them are County Secretary Dr. Wesley Bor, Finance and Economic Planning CEC Leonard Ngetich, and Health Services CEC Brenda Bii, who were implicated in the misuse of the funds. However, Governor Erick Mutai returned the report to the assembly, stating that only the County Secretary and the County Executive Committee members could be removed through an impeachment process.
While documents presented to the assembly show the detailed breakdown of the fund disbursement, a separate investigation by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) and the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) is ongoing. A forensic audit is also expected to release its report soon. The disbursement of the funds was marked by payments to victims’ families, medical bills, morgue services, and various services related to the fundraiser. The county government officials implicated face allegations including forgery, negligence, abuse of office, and violation of procurement rules.
Governor Mutai’s decision to refer the matter to the Public Service Board (PSB) for action has led to a delay in determining the fate of the implicated officers. The ongoing investigations aim to bring transparency and accountability to the distribution of the funds intended for the victims and their families.
