Kericho Deputy Governor Fred Kirui has exposed the misuse of Ksh 13.7 million that was raised for the victims of the Londiani Junction accident.
The cash was raised during a fundraiser held at Londiani stadium on July 4, 2023.
Kirui called for an investigation into county government officials involved in the misappropriation to ensure accountability.
“The budget used was not planned for and it is my wish that the money be refunded and given to the rightful families because that is theft,” Kirui stated.
According to Kirui, out of the total amount raised during the fundraiser, only Ksh 5.7 million reached the families of the victims.
Despite Ksh 3.5 million being allocated to cover hospital and mortuary bills, there remains uncertainty about the rest of the funds’ usage.
During the fundraising event, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua represented President William Ruto.
What is shocking is that the money raised from various county governments across the country was misappropriated without proper documentation, raising concerns of theft.
Kirui highlighted the discrepancies in the disbursement of funds, stating that each of the 53 families who lost their loved ones was given Ksh 90,000. Those injured received Ksh 60,000.
This allocation deviated significantly from the initial plan. In the initial plan, each of the families of the deceased was promised Ksh 300,000. The families of the hospitalized were also to each receive Ksh 200,000.
Before the misappropriation took place, Kericho Governor Eric Mutai had assured that the county government would waive hospital and mortuary bills for the victims.
The Deputy Governor has now provided a breakdown of how the funds were allegedly misused.
Ksh 2.9 million was paid to a tent company for the fundraising event. Another Ksh 423,000 was unfairly allocated to the County Public Service management for transport, refreshments, and printing expenses.
Additionally, Ksh 411,000 was paid to another company for providing tents at a Kericho hotel, and Ksh 100,000 was spent on lunch for 100 people.
Furthermore, the County Commissioner received Ksh 300,000 for fuel, lunch, and allowances for his team.
Kirui expressed his strong disapproval of the misappropriation, considering it unfair and inconsiderate to the victims and their families. He urged that those responsible for the misuse of funds be held accountable and brought to justice.
