The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) directed Kilifi County Government to suspend the scheduled payment of Sh103.8 million for...
The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) directed Kilifi County Government to suspend the scheduled payment of Sh103.8 million for the purchase of a revenue collection management system.
In a letter dispatched on Monday, EACC Regional Manager for the Upper Coast region, Ben Murei, advised Governor Gideon Mung’aro to halt the procurement process or face sanctions for misappropriation of public funds.
This comes after news that the Governor had entered into an agreement wih a construction company to build the county a revenue management system.
Reasons why
The anti-graft agency said a preliminary investigation had unearthed serious violations of the law, and cases of outright disregard for public interest.
“In the premises, pending conclusion of investigations, we advise that you suspend implementation of the contract and the payment of the sum of Sh103,797,361.70 purportedly being in respect of purchase of the system,” he wrote.
“In support of its bid, it annexed documents belonging to a third party, a firm by the name M/s Techbiz Limited (hereinafter, ‘Techbiz). However, it is critical to note that Techbiz is not a party to the agreement and the competency of the successful bidder must be based on its own merit and not those of a third party,” EACC said.
Zero capacity
Preliminary investigations by the anti-graft body indicate that the successful bidder, Aden Construction Company Ltd, does not have the requisite capacity and experience to undertake revenue management and collection.
“In support of its bid, it (Aden Construction Company Ltd) annexed documents belonging to a third party, a firm by the name M/s Techbiz Limited. However, it is critical to note that Techbiz is not a party to the agreement and the competency of the successful bidder must be based on its own merit and not those of a third party,” noted the commission.
No meaningful negotiation
The commission further noted that there was no meaningful negotiation on revenue sharing and termed the agreed percentage of 25% as exorbitant and unconscionable.
“It is further noteworthy that the said Techbiz is currently providing similar service to the County Government of Mombasa and the agreed rate of snaring is only 5%,” noted EACC.
The EACC cautioned that in the event of loss to the County Government every individual involved shall be held responsible.
By BNN
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