Impeached Ex-Governor Kawira’s Reign Marked by Scandal: Millions Vanish as Meru Cries for Justice | TAARIFA TV Investigates

🔥 FINANCIAL IRREGULARITIES INVESTIGATION: Examining Allegations of Misappropriated Funds During Governor Kawira Mwangaza's Administration in Meru County | TAARIFA TV

The Financial Management Controversy in Meru County

When Meru County residents elected Governor Kawira Mwangaza, many anticipated a new era of accountability, transparency, and improved service delivery. However, financial records and audit reports have raised serious questions about the administration's financial management practices.

Breaking Down the KSh 42.4 Million Payment Controversy

According to financial records obtained from the Integrated Financial Management Information System (IFMIS), approximately KSh 42.4 million in county payments have been flagged for investigation. These transactions allegedly benefited individuals with close connections to the county leadership:

• Rose Guantai: Reportedly received KSh 2.76 million designated for "accommodation" expenses without proper documentation or justification.
• Catherine Rukaria Kathure (Secretary to the Chief of Staff): Financial records indicate she received approximately KSh 29 million for seminars, travel expenses, and hotel accommodations over a period of [specific timeframe].
• Lydia Nkatha: Records show payments totaling KSh 6.8 million within a nine-month period for [specific services/purposes].
  
  
  

Official Audit Findings Raise Additional Concerns

The Office of the Auditor General's most recent report on Meru County identified several financial irregularities:

• KSh 1.2 million allocated for legal services lacked supporting documentation and proper procurement procedures.
• KSh 2 million designated for a construction project could not be properly accounted for due to insufficient documentation and oversight.
• KSh 126 million paid to medical professionals as allowances reportedly exceeded authorized rates according to public service guidelines.
• KSh 102 million processed through manual payroll systems, potentially circumventing established financial controls and regulations.

Employment Irregularities Under Investigation

Court records indicate that four county officials were dismissed from their positions but allegedly continued receiving their full salaries and benefits for over 12 months despite not providing any services. A court ruling ordered their reinstatement, which sources claim was not implemented, raising questions about payroll management and resource allocation.

Impact on Public Service Delivery

As these financial investigations proceed, Meru residents continue to face challenges in accessing essential services. Community representatives have expressed growing concerns about:

• Water infrastructure projects that remain incomplete
• Medical supply shortages at county health facilities
• Road maintenance and infrastructure development delays
  
  
  

Accountability Measures and Ongoing Investigations

The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has reportedly initiated investigations into these financial allegations. Citizens' groups are advocating for:

1. Full forensic audit of county finances
2. Recovery of any misappropriated fund