Gov’t orders all procurement, accounting heads to step aside

The government has ordered all heads of procurement and accounting in public offices to vacate their offices with immediate effect as the war on corruption intensifies.

“All heads of procurement and accounting units in ministries, departments, agencies and state corporations have been instructed to step aside with immediate effect. Before they vacate, they have also been instructed to hand over to their immediate deputies,” reads a memo from government spokesman Mwenda Njoka.

At the same time, the top officials will also have to undergo a lifestyle audit.

“Further the officers are required to submit personal information to the Office of the Head of Public Service to be delivered by Friday, June 8, 2018 at Harambee House,” the circular continued.

The personal information being sought include; their assets, liabilities and previous record of service.

“The exercise is geared towards determining suitability to continue holding office in the public trust and promote confidence in the public service,” added Njoka.

This comes after President Uhuru Kenyatta, on Friday, declared that all procurement and accounting heads in government undergo fresh vetting which will also see them subjected lie detector tests.

Speaking during the 55th Madaraka Day celebrations at Kinoru stadium in Meru, President Kenyatta ordered for fresh vetting for those in charge of purchases and book keeping within the next 30 days.

“All heads of procurement and accounts in government ministries, departments, agencies and parastatals will undergo fresh vetting including polygraph testing to determine their integrity and suitability,” said Mr. Kenyatta.