Bungoma governor Lusaka explains using 352 bank accounts

Bungoma Governor Kenneth Lusaka assured a Senate watchdog committee on Monday that his administration's management of 352 bank accounts complies with legal requirements.

Speaking before the Senate Committee on Devolution and Intergovernmental Relations, Lusaka explained that these accounts were established with the approval of the Controller of Budget and the Central Bank of Kenya.

“I am confirming that we have the 352 bank accounts. But most of the accounts belong to Vocational Training Centres (VTCs) and health facilities and dispensaries in the county,” Lusaka stated during his appearance before the Wajir Senator Abbas Mohamed-led committee.

While giving the breakdown of the bank accounts, the county chief revealed that VTCs in the county have 152 accounts, while health facilities have 146.

The rest of the bank accounts, according to the county chief, belong to Established Public Funds (10), Special Purpose (9) Project Management (1), Sub County Imprest (9), Mabanga Operation (19), Level 4 and 5 hospitals (19, Own Source Revenue Collection (4).

“Our health facilities receive funds directly from donors, which require them to maintain individual separate accounts. These accounts are fully audited and included in our quarterly financial statements,” Lusaka explained.

Senator Mohamed, chair of the committee, requested additional information, including the names of individuals managing the accounts.

“We need a detailed report on the accounts within three weeks,” Mohamed directed.