Siaya Governor Cornel Rasanga has acknowledged that personal relationships with county officials complicate his efforts to combat corruption, admitting he hesitates to remove employees due to potential political consequences.
The statement emerged during a public forum where Rasanga addressed concerns about governance in the county, with his cabinet ministers present to respond to community queries.
Rasanga specifically highlighted systemic issues in the Lands and Public Works departments, noting that corruption in the latter has reached a level requiring urgent intervention. He described how some staff members engage in private business while employed, undermining public service quality.
He referenced a 2013-2014 financial period when Public Works department personnel allegedly colluded to award contracts to unqualified contractors, resulting in substandard infrastructure projects. The governor emphasized this as a critical failure in procurement processes.
To address these challenges, Rasanga announced the implementation of an electronic tendering system aimed at increasing transparency. The initiative includes training programs for local stakeholders to ensure equitable access to contracting opportunities.
