This archive report was first published on 9 July 2020.
Published on July 9, 2020, a report revealed that the County Government of Migori allocated Sh4.1 million for the purchase of coffins in the 2020-2021 fiscal year.
The allocation sparked widespread outrage among Kenyans online, who accused Governor Okoth Obado's administration of misplaced priorities.
Chairperson of Migori County's Budget and Appropriation Committee Tom Akungo defended the allocation, stating that it is meant to remove the burden of making funeral arrangements on residents who lose loved ones, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic.
According to Akungo, the County Government is given an opportunity to accord its members befitting send-offs, as per the Public Service Commission Act of 2012.
He further noted that Migori is prone to natural disasters, citing the gold mines where locals often lose their families.
Of the Sh4.1 million allocated, Sh3.6 million was allocated to the Department of Public Service Management for the purchase of caskets, while Sh500,000 was given to the Department of Disaster Management for the same.
Online users expressed their outrage and confusion over the allocation, with some questioning the priorities of the Migori County Assembly.
