The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has summoned 39 directors and deputy directors from Busia County to its Bungoma offices for questioning over allegations of nepotism and corruption in their recruitment by the County Public Service Board.
The EACC’s summons follow reports of irregular employment practices, raising concerns about the integrity of the county’s hiring process.
EACC headquarters. Source: Facebook
According to a letter addressed to the County Secretary of Busia as posted by blogger Cyprian Nyakundi on X , the EACC cited its mandate under Article 252(1) of the Constitution and the EACC Act, 2011, which grants it the authority to investigate and address issues of corruption and unethical conduct in public offices.
The investigation specifically targets allegations that the County Public Service Board engaged in unfair hiring practices, including favouritism and nepotism, in the selection of directors and deputy directors for various county departments.
EACC head Bishop Oginde during a past media presser. Photo: Citizen Digital Source: Facebook
The commission has laid out a schedule requiring the officials to appear for interviews and statement recording, starting on November 4. The process will extend over several weeks, with sessions expected to conclude by November 20.
This will take place at the EACC’s Western Regional Office in Daima Plaza, Bungoma.
Among those summoned are directors responsible for critical sectors, including Energy, Agribusiness, Industry, Youth Development, Trade, Internal Audit, Fisheries, and ICT.
These officials are expected to provide statements regarding their recruitment, with the EACC aiming to determine if there were any breaches in the recruitment process.
In light of these allegations, the EACC is committed to uncovering any misconduct that might compromise the county’s governance standards.
This case reflects a larger effort by the commission to clamp down on unethical practices in public administration, particularly in county governments.
The EACC has urged all summoned officials to cooperate fully with the investigation, warning that failure to appear could result in further legal actions.
Busia County residents and leaders have expressed concerns over these allegations, noting that corruption in recruitment denies qualified individuals opportunities and compromises service delivery.
The EACC has reiterated its dedication to upholding transparency and integrity, underscoring that any officials found culpable will face appropriate disciplinary action.
