Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya Faces Scrutiny Over Suspicious Withdrawal of Millions
Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya is under investigation for alleged financial irregularities at Kitale Referral Hospital. The Senate County Public Investment and Special Funds Committee is probing the mysterious withdrawal of Ksh9.4 million from the hospital’s revenue account.
Missing Financial Records Raise Concern
An Auditor General’s report on the hospital’s financial statements for the 2023/2024 fiscal year has raised serious concerns about how funds are being used. The audit found that financial records from 2021/22 and 2022/23 were missing, making it difficult to determine the hospital’s financial situation.
Unauthorised Use of Hospital Funds
One major revelation is that Ksh9.4 million was withdrawn to fund Trans Nzoia County’s participation in the 2023 Devolution Conference. According to the report, the hospital’s board did not approve this withdrawal.
Senate Committee Criticizes Governor Natembeya
Senate Committee Chair Godfrey Osotsi (Vihiga) called Governor Natembeya’s administration incompetent, stressing that public funds must be properly accounted for.
While admitting to the withdrawal, Governor Natembeya defended the move, saying it was a “necessary borrowing” since there was no dedicated budget for the Devolution Conference.
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Trans Nzoia Senator Allan Chesang also criticized the governor, questioning why crucial financial records were missing. “What exactly is your finance department doing if such vital records are unavailable? This is beyond negligence; it is a serious governance failure,” he said.
Auditor’s Report Uncovers More Anomalies
The Auditor General’s report found several financial issues, including:
- Lack of a general ledger and trial balance needed for accurate accounting.
- Discrepancies in cash balances.
- Poorly maintained cashbooks.
- Undisclosed inventory, raising concerns about possible theft of hospital supplies.
Calls for Special Audit
Elgeyo Marakwet Senator William Kisang has urged the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) to conduct a special audit on the withdrawn funds.
The Senate Committee has now directed Natembeya’s administration to submit all missing financial records within seven days. This includes certified bank statements and a detailed explanation of the financial anomalies.
This ongoing investigation puts Governor Natembeya under pressure to clarify how public funds are managed in his county.
Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya Faces Scrutiny Over Suspicious Withdrawal of Millions
