EACC urges counties to refrain from graft for devolution to prosper
24 June 2025: The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has urged senior officials from the County Government of Bungoma to lead the fight against corruption by upholding integrity, transparency, and accountability in public service.
This call was made during the opening of a three-day Integrity and Anti-Corruption Workshop for its top leadership happening in Kisumu. Delivering remarks on behalf of EACC Secretary/CEO Mr. Abdi Mohamud, Western Regional Manager Mr. Eric Ngumbi commended Bungoma County for its ongoing efforts to strengthen governance. He urged county officials to cooperate fully with EACC investigations.
In his speech, Mr. Mohamud commended the County Government of Bungoma for proactively engaging the Commission to strengthen internal controls, describing the initiative as a “crucial step in the collective fight against corruption.” He highlighted persistent challenges facing county governments, including conflict of interest, payroll fraud, fictitious payments, and asset misappropriation, all of which continue to hinder the success of devolution.
“Reports from the Auditor General and other oversight bodies have persistently flagged malpractices within counties. Bungoma is not immune. That is why this training is timely,” Mr. Mohamud stated.
He outlined EACC’s current strategic priorities, including monitoring of capital-intensive projects, asset recovery, anti-bribery campaigns, collaboration with oversight institutions, and enhanced public awareness initiatives. Mr. Mohamud also reminded county officials of their legal obligation to cooperate with EACC investigations, warning that obstruction of justice, such as failure to submit requested documents, is a criminal offence.
The Commission further cautioned public officers against last-minute irregular payments and the creation of fictitious pending bills as the 2024/2025 financial year draws to a close. Any officer found culpable would be held personally accountable. Bungoma Governor Kenneth Lusaka echoed the Commission’s sentiments, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to ethical governance. “This workshop comes at a critical time when our citizens demand accountability and prudent use of public resources,” he said. “There is no place for corruption, favouritism, or negligence in this administration.”
Governor Lusaka thanked EACC for organizing the workshop and called on senior county officials, including CECs, Chief Officers, and County Public Service Board members, to fully engage in the sessions. He emphasized that Chapter Six of the Constitution must serve not just as a legal framework but as a moral compass in leadership.
“The fight against corruption starts with individual conduct and leadership choices,” Lusaka noted. “I urge you all to walk with me on this path of integrity and help position Bungoma as a model county for accountability.”
The workshop, which concludes on Thursday, 26th June 2025, aims to bolster compliance with leadership and integrity laws and foster a culture of ethical governance across the county.
