The Public Investments Committee (PIC) in the National Assembly is investigating financial irregularities in higher education institutions, as highlighted by the Auditor General’s reports.
The investigation encompasses public universities, Technical Vocational Education Training (TVET) institutions, and Technical Training institutes. These institutions are grappling with significant outstanding bills, making the investigation timely and essential.
Jack Wamboka, the Committee Chairman and Bumula MP, disclosed that the probe is retrospective, covering the fiscal year 2019–2020. The aim is to thoroughly address the concerns raised in the audit reports.
During a session in Kisumu, Wamboka emphasized the committee’s commitment to revealing blatant financial misconduct. He emphasized their determination to ensure the appropriate utilization of public funds allocated to these institutions, indicating that all responsible parties will be held accountable.
Wamboka pointed out that the audit reports outlined issues including mismanagement of public resources, negligence, and incompetence among accounting officers. He asserted that the committee will pursue those involved in order to recover misappropriated funds.
“Our objective is to safeguard public interests and guarantee value for every penny allocated to these public institutions,” Wamboka stated.
He explained that many institutions had previously escaped PIC audits due to the committee’s large scope of oversight, involving over 900 institutions. However, the current parliament has divided the PIC into three sections, enabling comprehensive oversight of previously unexamined institutions.
In recent sessions, accounting officers from Kisumu National Polytechnic, Seme Technical and Vocational College, Ugenya Technical and Vocational College, and Bondo Technical and Vocational College have appeared before the committee.
Continuing its proceedings in Kisumu until August 18, 2023, the committee intends to investigate reports on institutions such as Maseno University, Kisii University, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology, and Tom Mboya University, among others.
Accompanied by MPs Mangale Chiforomodo (Lunga Lunga), Samuel Mwenje (Embakasi West), and Dan Kariitho (Igembe Central), Wamboka stated that following the hearings, the committee will compile a report, identifying accounting officers responsible for mismanagement of public resources.
“We’ve already presented two reports and have two more ready, with a fourth in progress. The time for action is now. Without holding these officers accountable, progress cannot be achieved,” Wamboka asserted.
Given the span of the review period, Wamboka acknowledged that some managers may have left their positions. The committee plans to propose parliamentary actions to ensure accountability.
“After concluding the investigations, the committee will formulate and submit a report to the parliament. Once debated and approved, relevant government agencies will address the matter accordingly,” Wamboka concluded.
