The Kenya Universities and Colleges Placement Services (KUCCPS) is under investigation after allegations surfaced that CEO John Muraguri manipulated procurement processes to benefit KONVERGENZ Solutions Network, a firm with ties to Zetech University. The controversy centers on a Sh14 million contract awarded for computer servers, which reportedly violated specifications and the 2014 Public Procurement Act.
Documents obtained by Weekly Citizen reveal KONVERGENZ supplied servers with 2.4-speed components, below the tender requirement of 3.2. Despite competing bids meeting specifications, the firm was awarded the contract. The procurement committee found the award irregular, prompting calls for disciplinary action against Muraguri and evaluation committee members.
Muraguri, who has led KUCCPS since 2013, is accused of pressuring staff to approve the tender. Internal auditor Faith Mwasya ignored system audit warnings, while finance officer Erick Asande processed payments despite concerns. The CEO also faces allegations of conflict of interest after KONVERGENZ founder Abdullahi Abdul Sheikh reportedly offered shares to his son.
Zetech University, established in 1999, received significant government-sponsored student placements during 2020/2021. The institution’s growth coincided with the 2017 general election, during which lawyer Jasper Mbiuki—linked to both Zetech and Uhuru Kenyatta’s office—served in the deputy president’s administration. Muraguri has denied wrongdoing but claimed political connections, citing Mbiuki’s influence.
Companies affected by the disputed tenders have filed complaints with the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) and Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC). DCI investigators are stationed at KUCCPS, though Muraguri reportedly resisted cooperation. The KUCCPS board, including Education CS George Magoha, remains divided over the CEO’s conduct.
A separate investigation into KONVERGENZ’s tax compliance is ongoing. The firm also secured a Sh17 million contract for telephone systems, which auditors noted failed to meet tender specifications. Muraguri has warned that disciplinary action against him could impact his Murang’a constituency ahead of the 2022 elections.
