Busia County Governor Paul Otuoma has recorded a statement with investigating authorities over allegations of irregular procurement worth KSh 1.4 billion, sources close to the investigation confirmed.
The governor appeared before the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) detectives following mounting concerns about questionable tender awards and procurement processes within the county government.
The probe centers on several major contracts awarded between 2022 and 2024, including road construction projects, medical equipment supplies, and county infrastructure development.
According to documents seen by investigators, the procurement irregularities involve inflated project costs, non-competitive tendering processes, and payments made to suppliers who allegedly failed to deliver goods and services.
Some contracts were reportedly awarded to companies linked to county officials and their associates.
Governor Otuoma, who took office in 2022, has maintained his innocence, stating that his administration has operated within the law and followed all due procurement procedures.
“I have cooperated fully with the investigators and provided all the documentation they requested. We have nothing to hide,” the governor said in a brief statement after recording his statement.
The investigation has also roped in several county officials, including members of the procurement committee, finance officers, and heads of various departments.
At least six county employees have already been questioned, with some asked to provide documents detailing how specific tenders were awarded.
The probe follows complaints from contractors and civil society groups who raised concerns about the transparency of procurement processes in the county.
Auditor General reports had also flagged several procurement irregularities in Busia County over the past two financial years.
EACC spokesman confirmed that investigations are ongoing and that more individuals could be summoned to assist with inquiries.
The commission has emphasized that no one will be spared if found culpable of corruption or economic crimes.
Busia County Assembly members have called for transparency in the investigations and urged all implicated officials to cooperate with authorities.
The assembly’s Public Accounts Committee has also launched its own inquiry into the procurement concerns.
If charges are preferred and convictions secured, those found guilty could face hefty fines, jail terms, and disqualification from holding public office under Kenya’s anti-corruption laws.
The investigation continues as authorities seek to recover any public funds that may have been lost through the alleged irregular procurement processes.
