Senior Kenya Power procurement officers who were put on administrative leave last year to allow for a forensic audit have returned to work, but the eagerly anticipated findings are yet to be released.The suspension was to allow for a forensic audit to identify areas of possible revenue leakages.
As part of a government-led anti-corruption drive, the thorough audit was intended to examine the transactions of the procurement department employees, systems, and stocks. In November last year, Kenya Power suspended all 59 top employees from its supply chain division and formed a transitional team to run its procurement operations.
The move was informed by the Presidential Taskforce on Power Purchase Agreements Reforms’ recommendations to clean up the company’s unscrupulous practices.
The taskforce had at the time suggested that all procurement officers be replaced. It also demanded that the company lay off workers, implement a shift system, and conduct background checks on all employees to determine their qualifications, competence, and moral character. In order to confirm any employees’ unexplained riches, it also suggested that wealth disclosures be enforced.
All of the suspended employees have since resumed work following approval by the Ministry of Energy. The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) in June raided the houses of six managers in search of evidence that would implicate them. Four of those managers have since returned.
The houses of supply chain employees John Kibyegon, Jane Muigai, and John Wachira, as well as those of Charles Mwaura from the network management office, Stephen Kinadira from the finance division, and Eng. Stephen Nguli, had been searched by the EACC. The audit was intended to serve as the foundation for incriminating or clearing the suspended staff, which would then determine reinstatement or disciplinary action.
| By Lavin Atieno |
