The government has warned contractors and civil servants using political connections to secure public contracts, vowing to crack down on those undermining service delivery through conflict of interest.
Deputy Chief of Staff Eliud Owalo said the government is concerned about project delays caused by contractors who appear “untouchable” due to political links.
“We are witnessing a challenge where some contractors have political connections or ties with people in government. Let me make it clear: the award of contracts must remain within the Public Procurement and Asset Disposal Act. That Act does not recognize political connections or proximity to power,” Owalo said.
He said the government will not tolerate contractors hiding behind political patronage to deliver substandard work.
He stated that if a company was awarded a government contract, it had to deliver, regardless of the politician or official it knew.
Mr. Owalo also cautioned public servants manipulating procurement processes for personal gain, warning they will face legal consequences.
He condemned public servants doubling as contractors, stressing a clear separation between public service and private business.
“We are liaising with relevant agencies to ensure those in conflict of interest face the law. Government officers must decide whether they are in public service or in business. There will be no middle ground,” he noted.
He stated that the government would not allow public servants to serve two masters. He added that if anyone wanted to do business, they should resign and go into the private sector.
Mr. Owalo spoke in Western Kenya during a two-day inspection of government projects in Kakamega and Busia counties.
In Busia, the delegation assessed infrastructure, education, water, housing, and industrial projects.
At Alupe University, they inspected Sh1.1 billion hostels and a Sh405 million tuition block.
The Alupe Dam Water Project (Sh470 million) includes a treatment plant and pipeline to improve water access.