Bungoma Governor Kenneth Lusaka assured a Senate watchdog committee on Monday that his administration's management of 352 bank accounts complies with legal requirements.
Speaking before the Senate Committee on Devolution and Intergovernmental Relations, Lusaka explained that the accounts were established with the approval of the Controller of Budget and the Central Bank of Kenya.
“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 stated.
He called for an audit of the accounts during his appearance before the Wajir Senator Abbas Mohamed-led committee.
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 according to Lusaka belong to Established Public Funds (10), Special Purpose (9) Project Management (1), Sub County Imprest (9), Mabanga Operation (19), Level 4 and 5 Hospitals (19) and 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 are included in our quarterly financial statements,” Lusaka explained.
Mohamed, chair of the committee, requested additional information, including the names of individuals managing the accounts.
“We need a detailed report on the accounts within three weeks,” Mohamed directed.
The committee chairperson directed the county chief to furnish the house committee with more information on the accounts, including the names of the individuals managing the accounts.
“We need the detailed report on the accounts within 3 weeks,” Mohamed said.
On July 19, 2024, Lusaka responded to a petition filed by the Gen Zs in the county on transparency and accountability.
Among the key concerns by the youth was the recent revelation that the county operates 352 bank accounts.
Lusaka confirmed the existence of these accounts, categorising them into established public funds, special purpose accounts, project management accounts, and various others linked to county operations.
