The Trans Nzoia County Assembly’s labor committee is currently under scrutiny following a petition lodged by a resident, Danson Nyongesa, demanding the dismissal of the entire public board. The board, led by Chairperson Peter Wamoto and comprising members Kibyego Kitur, Rosemary Wanaswa, Elymarita Khaoya, Macton Wanyama, Samuel Warui, and Albert Soita, faces allegations of severe misconduct and constitutional violations.
Allegations and Constitutional Violations
Nyongesa’s petition accuses the board of failing to uphold the national values and principles of governance as outlined in Article 10 and 235 of the Constitution of Kenya, along with violations of Section 56 of the County Government Act 2012. Specifically, the petition points to gross misconduct in the board’s execution of duties, particularly in recruitment practices. It is alleged that the board engaged in canvassing with candidates who paid large sums of money for various staff positions advertised in November of the previous year and again last month.
The board members are also accused of nepotism, with claims that they have hired relatives and, in the case of Chairman Wamoto, a lover named Clarah Wasike. Wasike’s employment terms were reportedly upgraded from casual to permanent and pensionable under suspicious circumstances. Furthermore, the petition alleges that Wamoto and board member Kitur colluded with county human resource staff to promote employees without adherence to proper laws and regulations.
Kitur’s Political Aspirations and Financial Accusations
Kitur, identified as the chairman’s favored associate and a former councillor of Kapomboi, is described as having exploited his position to collect money from candidates seeking shortlisting and appointments. His actions have reportedly prepared him financially for a significant political challenge against Kwanza MP Ferdinand Wanyonyi, a close ally of Ford Kenya leader Moses Wetang’ula.
Legal and Leadership Repercussions
The acting secretary, Albert Soita, is also targeted in the petition. He is under fire for remaining in office despite a court indictment that resulted in a fine and an order to refund all salaries and allowances received from the exchequer.
Community Response and Calls for Accountability
The petition has garnered support from local ward representatives and other leaders, who echo Nyongesa’s calls for the dismissal and legal prosecution of the board members. These leaders characterize the board as a symbol of rampant corruption that has compromised the integrity and effectiveness of public service in Trans Nzoia.
This escalating controversy highlights ongoing issues of governance and corruption within local government structures in Kenya, stirring public demand for transparency, accountability, and adherence to constitutional mandates in public appointments and governance. The outcome of this petition could have significant implications for political and administrative practices in Trans Nzoia and possibly beyond, as residents and officials alike await decisive actions from the labor committee.
