On Tuesday, December 3, 2024, the Kitui County Assembly took a significant step in addressing allegations leveled against the County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Finance, Economic Planning, and Revenue Management, Mr. Peter Mwikya Kilonzo.
During a morning plenary session, Hon. Antony Musyoka (Kiomo/Kyethani) moved a motion to impeach the CECM, which was seconded by Hon. Paul Maluki (Kithumula/Kwa Mutonga). The motion garnered the support of 32 members, surpassing the required threshold under Section 40(2) of the County Governments Act.
To ensure a thorough investigation, the Assembly appointed a five-member committee as mandated by Section 40(3) of the County Governments Act. This committee is tasked with investigating the allegations and reporting back to the House within 10 days. The appointed members are Hon. Jeremiah Mutua Musee (Nguni Ward), Hon. Peter Kitonyo Mwanza (Mulango Ward), Hon. David Masaku Munyau (Mutomo Ward), and nominated members Hon. Fridah Maua and Hon. Jacquelyne Cate Kalenga.
The allegations against CECM Kilonzo span four broad categories: gross violation of the Constitution and statutory laws, incompetence, abuse of office, and gross misconduct. Among the claims are violations of public finance management laws, failure to meet statutory deadlines, intimidation of subordinates, solicitation of bribes, and misuse of public office for personal gain. Notable accusations include the unlawful drilling of boreholes on family land and presenting a memorandum opposing the approved County Fiscal Strategy Paper (CFSP) 2024/2025.
The motion’s mover, Hon. Musyoka, emphasized that the alleged actions of the CECM compromised the county government’s operational and financial stability. Instances of misreporting in the Integrated Financial Management Information System (IFMIS) and unrealistic revenue projections further undermined trust in his leadership. The allegations also include issuing threats to contractors and redirecting budgeted projects for personal benefit, a breach of integrity and public trust.
Presiding over the session, Speaker Kevin Kinengo Katisya urged members to allow the committee adequate time to carry out its investigations and present a detailed report. The findings will determine whether the allegations against Mr. Kilonzo are substantiated and provide the basis for further action by the Assembly. The development underscores the Assembly’s commitment to accountability and adherence to governance principles.
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