The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has launched a high-profile investigation into Vihiga County after claims emerged that Ksh5 million of public funds were splashed on a housewarming party at the residence of the County Speaker.
The revelations have provoked public outrage, with residents and civic groups calling for swift action to hold officials accountable.
The probe seeks to determine whether county resources were misused for a private function and recover any funds spent unlawfully, raising serious questions about financial governance in the county.
How Ksh5 Million Housewarming Party Triggered EACC Investigation
The investigation follows concerns raised during a Senate Public Accounts Committee session, where members flagged financial irregularities in recent county audit reports. The Auditor-General had previously questioned several expenditures, prompting demands for transparency.
In letters dated February 12, the EACC formally notified the Acting County Secretary and the Clerk of the Vihiga County Assembly about the probe. The agency is now seeking original documents that could shed light on the alleged Ksh5 million housewarming party. These include fund requests, approvals for borrowing, transfer confirmations, and evidence of reimbursements.
The commission has also demanded full procurement records, including quotations, tender bids, evaluation minutes, professional opinions, award letters, signed contracts, and payment documents such as invoices, IFMIS entries, RTGS confirmations, and cheques.
EACC CEO Abdi Mohamud emphasized the seriousness of the probe, warning that any misuse of county funds could lead to criminal charges.
Public Outrage and Accountability Demands
The alleged expenditure has sparked widespread anger among Vihiga residents, civic groups, and political observers. Many have questioned the priorities of county officials and demanded that the EACC act decisively. Civic organizations have submitted petitions urging the commission to recover the Ksh5 million and prosecute those found culpable.
If confirmed, the misuse of funds could lead to charges for abuse of office, unlawful expenditure, and breaches of procurement laws. Observers say the incident exposes systemic weaknesses in county financial management that need urgent correction.
Long-Standing Governance Gaps in Vihiga
This is not the first time the EACC has raised concerns over Vihiga County’s finances. In 2019, a Corruption Risk Assessment highlighted persistent governance gaps, including failure to remit rent deductions to the County Revenue Fund, irregular procurement, ghost workers, delayed surrender of imprests, and lack of internal audit committee charters.
Experts warn that without structural reforms, incidents like the alleged Ksh5 million housewarming party are likely to recur. The current probe could serve as a wake-up call for county officials and strengthen oversight mechanisms.
The EACC has urged full cooperation from the county government and assembly, signaling that transparency will be critical in resolving the case. Residents and civic bodies continue to monitor the investigation closely, calling for accountability and recovery of public resources.
