County governors who have been skipping parliamentary scrutiny over how they use public funds are now facing a fresh warning of possible criminal action, as pressure mounts over accountability in the management of billions allocated to devolved units.
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has cautioned county bosses that continued refusal to appear before parliamentary committees could attract legal consequences, saying the trend of ignoring Senate summons on Auditor-General reports is weakening oversight and cannot be allowed to continue in a democratic system.
Speaking during a youth empowerment programme in Mabera, Kuria West Constituency in Migori County on Friday, Wetang’ula stressed that Parliament will firmly uphold its mandate to examine how public resources are used.
“As parliament, we will not compromise on oversight. For whom much is given, much more is expected. You cannot take billions of taxpayers’ money and when you are asked what work it has done, you start making noise and refusing to appear before Parliament to account,” Wetang’ula said.
“I want to sound a very strong warning to all the 47 governors, you must appear before Parliament and explain how you have spent public funds.” Wetang’ula said.
He pointed out that the Senate County Public Accounts Committee has already identified 11 governors who have failed to respond to invitations for questioning over Auditor-General findings on county expenditure.
At the same time, the Council of Governors has maintained its stance of boycotting the Homa Bay Senator Moses Kajwang-led committee, accusing it of harassment and extortion claims.
Wetang’ula warned that defiance of parliamentary summons would no longer be treated lightly, adding that governors who ignore oversight bodies risk facing prosecution under proposed legal reforms.
He further directed Rarieda MP Otiende Amollo, a Senior Counsel and member of his legal team, to spearhead the drafting of criminal penalties targeting leaders who refuse to honour accountability processes before Parliament.
“Governors are not owners of public funds; they are trustees and custodians of public good. When they err, they must come to Parliament and answer questions,” he said.
On economic issues, Wetang’ula praised MPs for fast-tracking amendments that reduced Value Added Tax on fuel following a request from President William Ruto.
He said the decision to cut VAT on fuel products by half would ease pressure on households and businesses, noting that fuel costs affect transport, food prices and small enterprises.
“Fuel touches every aspect of our lives from transport to food production and small businesses. Reducing VAT was necessary to cushion wananchi,” he noted.
The Speaker also called for national unity, urging Kenyans to reject ethnic divisions and embrace respect for one another across communities.
He referenced the political contribution of the late Raila Odinga, saying his legacy helped advance reforms and inclusivity in the country’s political space.
“Kenya has no small or big tribes only Kenyans. We must treat one another with respect and dignity,” he said.
Turning to the youth, Wetang’ula urged beneficiaries of empowerment funds to invest wisely and focus on building sustainable livelihoods.
“Use the funds to invest in tools of production and build sustainable businesses. Do not squander opportunities meant to uplift your lives,” he advised.