EACC probes irregular hiring in Siaya County

30:09:2025: The Commission has launched investigations into allegations of bribery, abuse of office, and irregular recruitment by officials of the Siaya County Public Service Board (CPSB), following reports of unauthorized employment of over 500 health workers.

The inquiry stems from complaints that in 2023, the County Government of Siaya made a formal request to recruit approximately 100 health personnel to fill staffing gaps and replace retiring staff. However, it is alleged that the Siaya CPSB exploited this request to engage in unauthorized recruitment, driven by bribery from job seekers.

According to preliminary reports, prospective candidates allegedly paid bribes of up to Kes350,000 in exchange for employment letters. As a result, more than 500 health workers were issued appointment letters, well beyond the approved number. The County Government of Siaya has since confirmed that it lacks the financial capacity to absorb the excess recruits onto the payroll.

It has been revealed that the recruited health workers have been reporting to work based solely on the strength of the employment letters they received, and are now demanding to be placed on the county payroll.

Despite reluctance by some affected individuals to formally record statements for fear of reprisal, EACC has opted to pursue a forensic approach to determine the justification behind the issuance of excess employment letters and to hold those responsible accountable.

“We will establish why the Siaya CPSB acted outside the mandate given by the County Government. Issuance of unauthorized employment letters without proper authority amounts to abuse of office, and those found culpable will face sanctions,” the Commission stated.

As part of the investigation, EACC is also conducting financial examinations and lifestyle audits on suspect officials believed to be involved in the scheme.