An audit has revealed that Vihiga Governor Wilberforce Otichilo authorised the use of KSh5 million in county public funds to finance a housewarming party for the Vihiga County Speaker, triggering sharp criticism from senators.
Governor Otichilo appeared before the Senate County Public Accounts Committee (CPAC) on Monday, January 26, where he was grilled over the controversial expenditure.
Members of the committee questioned why such a large sum was spent on a non-essential event at a time when Vihiga County is grappling with serious challenges in healthcare and education.
While responding to the queries, Governor Otichilo admitted that he did not have all the relevant documents to support the expenditure, saying he was therefore unable to give a detailed breakdown of how the funds were used.
“I do not have the documentation here, but what I know is that the function that took place at the speaker’s place was an official county function. The money that was given was for the official opening of the speaker’s house; that is what I know,” Otichilo told the committee.
However, senators dismissed his explanation, stating that a housewarming ceremony does not qualify as an official county function under public finance regulations.
The committee further noted that the spending was unauthorised, accusing the governor of misusing public funds. Senators warned that appropriate action could be taken once the audit process is concluded.
The revelation has sparked renewed debate over accountability and the use of public resources by county governments.
