By Our Correspondent
The Government has warned politicians against meddling in public procurement, saying those involved in irregular tenders, stalled works, or misuse of funds will face prosecution and be barred from future contracts.
Deputy Chief of Staff for Delivery and Government Efficiency Eliud Owalo said some politicians were posing as contractors or influencing tender awards, a practice he termed unacceptable.
“If you are a politician, stick to politics. If you want to be in business, go to the private sector,” he said.
Mr. Owalo directed government agencies to tighten vetting of contractors, noting that weak oversight and poor evaluation had led to stalled projects.
He said firms lacking capacity would be blacklisted, and payments made for incomplete works recovered through legal means.
During an inspection tour of national projects in Trans Nzoia and West Pokot, Mr. Owalo assessed progress on major infrastructure works, including the Sh9.7 billion Siyoi–Muruny Dam and the Sh722 million Kapenguria–Makutano Sewerage Project. The two are expected to expand access to water and sanitation for thousands of residents once completed.
In Trans Nzoia, the Sh4.5 billion Suam One-Stop Border Post, which is 93 per cent complete, will ease cross-border trade with Uganda, the DRC, and South Sudan.
The team also inspected the Sh15.4 billion Kitale–Murpus Road, part of the Kenya–South Sudan Link, which will boost transport and industrial growth in the region.
Mr. Owalo said the government was determined to deliver projects efficiently and ensure taxpayers get value for money.
“No public funds will be lost. Every shilling must benefit citizens,” he said.
Other projects inspected included the Sh240 million Endebess Maternal and Child Health Complex, Sh68 million Kwanza Technical and Vocational College, Sh2.7 billion Maili Tatu Housing Project, and the Sh120 million Sibanga and Bikeke markets.
Mr. Owalo said the Kenya Kwanza administration remains committed to transparency and accountability in public spending and will not tolerate interference in project delivery.