Bungoma’s 352 bank accounts, the truth and Lusaka’s action

Bungoma Governor Kenneth Lusaka has cleared the air on his administration’s management of 352 bank accounts and revealed they all comply with legal requirements.

Speaking on Monday, August 5 while he appeared before the Senate Committee on Devolution and Intergovernmental Relations, Lusaka explained that these accounts were established with the approval of the Controller of Budget (CoB) and the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) following laid down legal procedures.

“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,” Lusaka revealed, adding that all checks and balances fulfil required thresholds.

At the same time, the second-time governor told the Wajir Senator Abbas Mohamed-led committee that he had called for a thorough audit off the accounts with a view of ensuring total compliance and that funds are not embezzled.

While giving the breakdown of the bank accounts, the county chief revealed that VTCs in the county have 152 accounts, while health facilities have 146.

The rest of the bank accounts, he revealed, belong to Established Public Funds (10), Special Purpose (9) Project Management (1), Sub County Imprest (9), Mabanga Operation (19), Level 4&5 Hospitals (19), Own Source Revenue Collection (4).

“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,”

Governor Lusaka.

During the session, the committee requested additional information, including the names of individuals managing the accounts.

“We need a detailed report on the accounts within three weeks,” Senator Mohamed directed following Lusaka’s affirmation that he would furnish the committee with all information in a month’s time.