MPs demand audit of COVID-19 funds within 60 days

The National Assembly’s Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has issued a 60-day notice for the Auditor General to carry out a forensic audit at the Kenya Medical Supplies Authority (KEMSA) which involves the use or possible misuse of billions of shillings.

This comes as claims of misappropriation of money meant to fight the COVID-19 pandemic have sparked demonstrations in several towns across the country.

The PAC now says it expects regular updates and answers from the Auditor General on utilization of the billions set aside to combat the disease.

“A maximum of 60 days from the day of this communication to undertake this forensic audit…in one month we expect a preliminary report…,” said PAC Chair and Ugunja MP Opiyo Wandayi.

National Assembly Speaker Justin Muturi said Parliament will fully participate in ensuring funds set aside to fight the spread of the pandemic are fully accounted for.

Muturi further challenged investigative agencies to look into the graft allegations and ensure Kenyans know the truth about reports of runaway corruption in KEMSA, an agency under the Ministry of Health.