Kericho Deputy Governor Fred Kirui has lifted the lid on the misappropriation of Ksh13.7 that was raised for Londiani Junction accident victims.
He called on authorities to investigate county government officials over the misappropriation so that they may be held accountable.
Kirui disclosed that out of all the Ksh13.7 million raised on July 4, 2023, at the Londiani stadium during the fundraiser, only Ksh5.7 million reached the victims’ families.
He further argued that even after Ksh3.5 million was paid to cover the hospital bills of the victims and mortuary bills for the lost lives, there still seemed to be a void on how the rest of the money was used.
"The Deputy President (Rigathi Gachagua) was sent by the President (William Ruto) during the fundraising of the victims. The shocking part is that the money raised by county governments from various corners of the country was misappropriated without a clear trace.
"The budget used was not planned for and it is my wish that the money be refunded and given to the rightful families because that is theft," he noted.
Each of the 53 families who lost their loved ones in the accident was given Ksh90,000 while those who were injured were given Ksh60,000.
According to the initial plan, however, the families who lost their loved ones were supposed to receive Ksh 300,000 each while those hospitalised were to be compensated with Ksh200,000 Each.
Prior to the misappropriation spree, Kericho Governor Eric Mutai had promised during the fundraiser that the county government would waive both the hospital and mortuary bills.
The DG broke down how the funds were disbursed stating that Ksh2.9 million was paid to a tent company during the fundraising. The County Public Service management is said to have benefited from Ksh423,000 that was unfairly allocated for transport, refreshments and printing.
Ksh411,000 was paid to another company for the provision of tents in a Kericho hotel and Ksh100,000 for lunch of 100 people.
Kirui added that the County Commissioner was also given Ksh300,000 for fuel, lunch and allowances for his team.
"The misappropriation of funds by the county officials is so unfair and inconsiderate. The people behind it should be brought to book," Kirui concluded.
