Governor Lusaka defends use of 352 bank accounts before Senators

By Peter Ochieng

Bungoma governor Kenneth Lusaka on Monday confirmed before a Senate watchdog committee, that his administration was indeed operating 352 bank accounts.

The former Senate Speaker was flagged in a report released by the Controller of Budget (CoB) Margaret Nyakago weeks ago, for running 352 bank accounts contrary to the established legal frameworks.

"The County government operated a total of 352 accounts with commercial banks," the report stated in part.

Speaking before members of the Senate Committee on Devolution and Inter-governmental Relations, Lusaka defended his administration, explaining that the accounts were established with the approval of the Controller of Budget, and the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK).

“I am confirming that we have the 352 bank accounts. But most of the accounts belong to Vocational Training Centres (VTCs) and health facilities and dispensaries in the county,” he told the Wajir Senator Abbas Mohamed chaired committee.

He called for an audit from various government agencies, to prove that the accounts are well managed.

In his breakdown, the county chief revealed that VTCs in the county have 152 accounts, while health facilities have 146, totalling 298.

The rest of the bank accounts according to the County Chief, belong to established public funds, special purpose, project management and Sub County imprest among others.

“Our health facilities receive funds directly from donors, which require them to maintain individual separate accounts.

These accounts are fully audited and included in our quarterly financial statements,” he emphasized.

After his explanation, Senator Mohamed requested for additional information, including the names of individuals managing the accounts within 21 days.

“We need a detailed report on the accounts within three weeks,” Senator Mohamed directed.