The recent actions by Murang'a Governor Mwangi Wa Iria have deprived Kenya a massive investment by the World Bank, parliament learned on Tuesday.
Water and Sanitation Cabinet Secretary Simon Chelugui told the Senate that World Bank revoked funding a Ksh130 million water project earmarked to serve the people of Murang’a South over the ongoing wrangles.
The CS told the Senate Lands Committee that the wrangles rocking the water sector in the county are being occasioned by Governor Wa Iria and his administration.
Chelungui stated that World Bank intended to support Murang’a Water and Sanitation Company (MUWASCO) to expand water infrastructure to the lower parts of Murang’a but the funding had been withdrawn.
"This is due to the misunderstanding over the control and management of water services provision and water utility assets between the County Government and the water companies in the county,” CS Chelugui told the Senate.
He accused the governor's administration of violating the Water Act 2016 when they tried to convert management of water and sanitation services into one of its departments.
"The county has been trying to sack directors and staff without following due process as provided for by the law; disruption of the company’s activities, including tampering with pipelines and other water infrastructure, confiscation of office equipment and rendering inaccessible the company offices by blocking the entrance with rocks, boulders and metal bars," noted Chelugui.
After the submissions, the committee resolved that it will invite Wa Iria to shed light on the water issues in his county and give the way forward.
MUWASCO directors have also been summoned by the committee to discuss the issues behind the wrangles that had caused an acute water shortage.
Ruto Arrives in Rome for Pope Francis Burial News Just In
