This archive report was first published on 13 August 2019.
Troubled Lake Region Economic Bloc: CEO Aballah Wanga's Scandals ¶
Published on August 13, 2019
The Lake Region Economic Bloc (LREB) has been embroiled in controversy following allegations of mismanagement and corruption against its CEO, Aballah Wanga. The CEO, who has a history of controversy, is facing fresh allegations of wife battering, embezzlement, and abuse of office.
According to sources, Wanga was accused of stealing office furniture worth Sh128,200 from his former workplace, the Kenya Medical Laboratories and Technicians Board. He was also accused of sending abusive and annoying text messages to the current CEO.
Wanga's troubles are compounded by allegations of a culture of corruption and favoritism within the LREB. It is alleged that he has been using his position to favor certain individuals, including a senior female officer who is said to have had a steamy love affair with him.
The officer, who wished to remain anonymous, pleaded with Weekly Citizen not to drag her name into the matter, citing the potential consequences for her marital status.
The LREB, which comprises 14 counties, has been plagued by controversy since its inception in 2015. The organization's chairman, Governor Wycliffe Oparanya, recently resigned, citing workload pressure. However, sources indicate that Oparanya was not impressed by the way things were being run at the LREB.
Former Bomet Governor Joyce Laboso, who was the bloc's vice-person, had also expressed concerns about Wanga's management style, describing it as a 'one-man show'.
