CS Kiunjuri given deadline as maize scandal probe continues

Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mwangi Kiunjuri has been given 21 days to come up with an elaborate report and tally of the physical count of maize in storage at various depos around the country, as the maize scandal probe at the National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) intensifies.

Kiunjuri had initially asked for a whole month to complete the task but his request was denied by members of the committee.

Appearing before the Parliamentary Agriculture, Livestock and Cooperatives Committee on Wednesday, Kiunjuri shed light on some matters surrounding the maize and fertiliser scandal.

“I have already done my part by raising the flag on this matter. The committee should also note that I was appointed in late January and by February I had already started issuing statements,” said Kiunjuri.

“After I noticed the malpractices, I did what any other person would do and reported the matter to the relevant authorities who could further investigate since I cannot do so on my own.”

Kiunjuri added: “The Directorate of Criminal Investigations has all the information that I have presented to you and the Ethics and Anti- Corruption Commission as well. It is up to them to investigate and it only with evidence that the prosecution will have the mandate to act.”

When questioned on whether there were other ‘big fish’ involved in the scam, Kiunjuri was quick to add that “No other persons are involved. Our records prove that no other persons are involved except for the 18 who have already been brought forward.”

“I cannot say that any money has been lost unless we verify our stocks. Yes, there has been a loss; the hardworking farmers did lose a great opportunity to reap from their produce but any loss of money will have to be verified in 21 days,’’ he added.

He insisted that no maize had been imported from Uganda or any other destination in the last six months and only 971 farmers had not been paid.

The payments, according to the CS, will be made in the next one or two weeks.