Leaders in Trans Nzoia County have criticised governors over claims that the Senate Committee on Oversight is harassing and extorting them during appearances before it.
The leaders, who spoke during a UDA consultative forum at Kisawai in Saboti Sub-County, said governors must be ready to account for public funds disbursed to their counties.
Allan Chesang dismissed the claims by governors, stating that the Senate will not abdicate its constitutional mandate.
“The governors must honour summons issued by the Senate since the funds disbursed are meant for public development, and any misuse must be questioned,” said Chesang.
He emphasised that the Senate has a constitutional role to oversee county governments on the expenditure of funds allocated for devolved functions such as health and agriculture.
Kakai Bisau said that as long as county governments receive allocation from the public coffers, they must be prepared to account for it.
“Members of County Assemblies have been held hostage by some governors from effectively carrying out their oversight role. The only institution remaining to safeguard public interest is the Senate,” he said.
Former Kiminini MP Chris Wamalwa said governors must be held accountable and those with questionable spending should face the full force of the law.
“The Senate must stand firm in the discharge of its oversight mandate. It should not be cowed or intimidated because it has the constitutional authority to act,” said Wamalwa.
Trans Nzoia Woman Representative Lilian Siyoi challenged the Senate to ensure it executes its oversight role transparently and above board.
“I urge senators to ensure that those found culpable are held accountable to avoid situations where some are alleged to compromise oversight processes,” said Siyoi.
Endebess MP Robert Pukose said the auditing process must be respected and strengthened, noting that county governments are public-funded institutions.
“County governments are funded by taxpayers and must be ready to be audited. These are not personal entities but public institutions accountable to the people,” said Pukose.
On February 9, 2026, the Council of Governors issued a press statement demanding the reconstitution of the Senate County Public Accounts Committee (CPAC) and announced a suspension of appearances before the committee until structured engagement is held with Senate leadership.
The Governors requested the removal of four senators accused of extorting governors appearing before the Senate County Public Accounts Committee (CPAC).
The standoff between governors and the Senate has sparked debate over accountability, transparency, and the constitutional oversight role of the Senate in safeguarding public funds allocated to county governments.
