This archive report was first published on 11 January 2020.
On January 11, 2020, screenshots leaked on social media alleged that Hillary Itela, a Kenya Rugby Union board member and Technology Service Providers of Kenya (TESPOK) Director, had failed to explain what had happened to Ksh. 494,000 raised for the education of his late friend Clive's children.
The Old Lenana Boys have since responded to the allegations, issuing a statement that clarifies the circumstances surrounding the missing funds.
According to the statement, Clive passed away in July 2018, and as is tradition, the class group mobilized to raise funds for his children's education. The group appointed Hillary Itela to coordinate the fund mobilization efforts and liaise with Clive's family.
The funds raised were a total of KES. 494,000, and the class group made a call to have any collection solely channeled towards the education of the deceased children. However, the management of the funds was to be agreed by all involved parties, including the widows and parents of the deceased.
Despite the allegations, the Old Lenana Boys have defended Hillary Itela, stating that he acted on behalf of the Lenana class of 1999 and has successfully managed many similar drives in the past. They also clarified that no monies were misappropriated by Hillary Itela, and the funds have always been available.
The class group has expressed regret that the issue has turned into an unsavory public spectacle and has assured that the matter has been addressed with the urgency it required. Further details will be shared following ongoing consultation with Clive's family.