Trans Nzoia County may lose access to its funds after Senators moved to block withdrawals. The move comes as Governor George Natembeya struggles to pay outstanding gratuity for former staff.
The Senate County Public Accounts Committee (CPAC) issued the warning on Thursday, January 29. Members addressed the issue while reviewing the 2024/25 audit report by the Office of the Auditor-General.
The report revealed that the county owes Ksh52 million in terminal benefits. Half of the amount, Ksh26 million, is for staff from the Office of the Governor during former Governor Patrick Khaemba’s administration.
The other Ksh26 million is owed to employees from various county departments. The audit highlighted that these payments have been pending for over four years.
CPAC Demands Clear Gratuity Payment Plan
CPAC Chairperson Moses Kajwang instructed the Controller of Budget (CoB) to halt further fund withdrawals. The committee insisted that the county present a detailed gratuity payment plan first.
Kajwang said both CPAC and the Auditor-General must approve the plan before any money leaves the County Revenue Fund. He emphasised that the law requires timely payment of staff terminal benefits.
Senator Samson Cherarkey echoed the same sentiment. He stated that gratuity is a contractual obligation, not a privilege, and must be paid without delay.
The committee criticised the county for internal inefficiencies. They rejected the Governor’s explanation that external factors caused the delay.
Governor Natembeya Explains Financial Challenges
Governor Natembeya admitted that payments had been delayed. He cited financial pressures and outstanding statutory deductions from previous administrations.
The Governor claimed these deductions attracted penalties and taxes, straining the county’s finances. He assured the committee that no malice led to the delayed payments.
“It is an unfortunate situation. Officers who have left public service deserve these funds,” Natembeya stated. Kajwang dismissed the governor’s explanation and demanded immediate action.
The committee stressed that the county must prioritise the debt. They warned that staff welfare and proper financial management cannot be ignored.
Possible Funding Freeze and Its Consequences
If the CoB follows the committee’s directives, Trans Nzoia may lose access to county funds. The freeze will continue until Governor Natembeya submits a viable payment plan.
Lawmakers warned that ignoring the directives could bring further sanctions. They said financial uncertainty in the county would persist if payments remain unpaid.
CPAC stated that public funds must align with responsible governance. They argued that mismanagement undermines service delivery and staff rights.
The committee will monitor compliance closely. They made it clear that supplementary budgets alone will not satisfy obligations unless executed responsibly.
Commitment to Resolve the Arrears
Governor Natembeya assured the committee that he will allocate funds through a supplementary budget. He promised the payments will clear the arrears owed to former county employees.
CPAC indicated it will maintain strict oversight. They want to ensure the county fulfills its obligations without further delay.
The law requires timely settlement of gratuity to avoid disputes. Officials warned that failing to act could result in public dissatisfaction and legal challenges.
Natembeya’s administration now faces pressure to act fast. Any delay could worsen the county’s financial credibility.
Senators emphasised that withholding gratuity harms staff morale. They urged the county to implement reforms that prevent such long-term delays.
The audit report serves as a reminder of the county’s accountability. CPAC said all departments must submit detailed financial plans promptly.
Governor Natembeya acknowledged the gravity of the situation. He said his office will work closely with CPAC to deliver solutions.
Lawmakers concluded that effective governance requires transparency and timely payments. They reiterated that financial resources must directly support public service and staff welfare.
The county now operates under heightened scrutiny. Failure to comply with CPAC directives could result in stricter sanctions from Parliament.
Trans Nzoia residents expect swift resolution. They want the county to restore financial order and uphold employee rights.
The committee’s decision reflects wider concerns over county finances. Senators argued that other counties must also prevent such accumulation of unpaid obligations.
Governor Natembeya faces a tight deadline. He must balance financial constraints while ensuring all former staff receive their dues.
CPAC affirmed that no excuses will justify delayed gratuity payments. The county must act decisively to prevent further scrutiny and sanctions.
Staff, citizens, and lawmakers will watch closely. Compliance with audit recommendations will determine the county’s financial credibility.
The committee stressed that accountability ensures public trust. Any delay in fulfilling obligations could tarnish the county’s reputation further.
Governor Natembeya’s assurances provide some hope. Yet, CPAC will verify every step before releasing additional funds.
Trans Nzoia County must now demonstrate financial responsibility. Prompt payment of gratuity will prevent funding freezes and legal conflicts.
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