Mixed reactions emerge after COB rejects Kathuri’s request to halt Mwangaza’s fund withdrawal
By Gerald Mukembu
Residents of Meru are voicing a spectrum of opinions following the Controller of Budget’s rejection of Senator Kathuri Murungi’s request to prevent Governor Kawira Mwangaza from accessing county funds.
Political activist Mike Makarina criticized Kathuri’s actions, labeling his opposition as misguided.
“The Controller of Budget operates independently, and we appreciate their decision to allow Governor Mwangaza to withdraw County Revenue funds. It’s concerning to see a Senator and Deputy Speaker act as if they are uninformed. If we were to gather signatures for his impeachment, would he find that acceptable?” Makarina remarked.
Conversely, local businessman Jacob Mantili expressed concerns over the potential mismanagement of funds.
“Our worry is that this decision gives Mwangaza unfettered access to redirect funds away from critical needs for the people of Meru. Last year, we lost over 700 million shillings, and the reasoning behind this situation remains unclear,” he stated.
Mantili emphasized the lack of unity within the County government, asserting that the Controller of Budget has a responsibility to ensure prudent use of public funds.
“We urge the Controller to be diligent; if any funds are misallocated, accountability rests with them. She came to office with nothing, yet now she is acquiring assets everywhere,” he added.
Karuti, the Secretary General of the NOPEU party, stressed that the community does not oppose female leadership but believes Mwangaza has demonstrated a lack of respect and effectiveness in her role.
“I commend the people of Meru for their overwhelming calls for Governor Mwangaza to resign immediately. We support women leaders; however, Mwangaza must learn to collaborate closely and effectively with her fellow leaders in Meru. Last year’s loss of 700 million shillings is a clear indicator of her failures,” said Karuti.
She reiterated that the community does not have an issue with women in leadership, citing successful figures like CoG Mary Mwiti and Chief Justice Martha Koome as examples.
“The problem lies with Mwangaza’s ineptitude,” she concluded.
