EACC Launches Probe Into Bungoma County Spending
The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has launched investigations into Bungoma County over a controversial KSh3.6 million Christmas tree expenditure.
In a letter dated February 9, 2022, the commission requested key documents from the Bungoma County Secretary.
The probe focuses on suspected fraud and theft of public funds.
Investigators are examining alleged fictitious benchmarking trips to Mbale, Uganda. They are also reviewing a Christmas tree lighting ceremony at the governor’s office.
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Senate Flags Irregular Spending
The expenditure was first flagged by the Senate County Public Accounts Committee (CPAC).
Committee Chairperson Moses Kajwang’ questioned how Bungoma County spent KSh3.6 million on a Christmas celebration reportedly held in September 2019.
“So you spent Sh3.6 million for a Christmas tree celebration? Using Sh3.6 million for Christmas tree lighting in September?” Kajwang’ asked during the session.
Records presented before the committee showed the funds were drawn on September 9, months before December.
Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna also raised concerns over the timing and documentation.
Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei questioned why the county appeared to celebrate Christmas months earlier than usual.
County Officials Respond
Bungoma Senator Wafula Wakoli told the committee the event was ceremonial. He said participants wore Christmas hats and tents were erected at the governor’s office compound.
Governor Ken Lusaka distanced himself from the expenditure.
He stated that the questioned spending occurred in 2019 and should not be attributed to his administration.
“Chair, just for the record, it is in 2019, please protect me,” Lusaka said.
However, discrepancies emerged in explanations provided by county officials.
Bungoma County Attorney Edward Waswa described the expenditure as facilitation. This differed from explanations given by the county secretary.
The conflicting accounts deepened concerns among senators.
Kajwang’ insisted the matter required investigation by the EACC.
“This is a matter that is unethical. This is a matter that should go to EACC,” he said.
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Additional Concerns Over Stadium Project
The Senate also questioned progress on the Masinde Muliro Stadium project.
County officials claimed the project was 95 percent complete.
However, an audit inspection conducted in July 2025 reportedly found stalled works and structural defects.
Inspectors noted the contractor was absent and sections of the external fence near the VIP entrance had visible defects.
Senators expressed concern over safety and accountability.
Investigation Underway
The EACC has formally requested documents to establish whether public funds were misused.
If investigations confirm irregularities, those responsible could face legal consequences.
For now, Bungoma County remains under scrutiny as investigators assess the documentation.