Nairobi News

The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) on 15 May, launched investigations into alleged irregularities in the procurement of anti-mosquito nets at the Kenya Medical Supplies Authority (KEMSA).

Officers from the anti-graft body raided KEMSA and obtained documents that are crucial to the investigation into the Sh3.7 billion procurement of the bed nets.

It is worth noting that the tender in question is number GF ATM MAL NFM 2022/2023 OIT-02 and was for the supply of Long Lasting Insecticidal Nets (LLINS).

Also read: President Ruto vows to clean up Kemsa after Sh3.7 billion tender scandal

An official privy to the ongoing investigations at the EACC, who spoke in confidence, confirmed to Nairobi News that investigations are already underway and plans are afoot to record statements from some officials, especially in the procurement department.

“The Commission reminds all accounting officers and other public officials that by virtue of their offices, they remain public trustees who should always protect public interest,” the official said.

According to the official, it is imperative for government parastatal officials to adhere to the laws that govern the management of public affairs and the resources entrusted to them.

The inquiry was initiated after the removal of Ms Josephine Mburu, the Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Public Health and Professional Standards, and the revocation of appointments of KEMSA’s board members and chairperson by President William Ruto.

He also suspended the Chief Executive Officer of KEMSA, Ms Terry Ramadhani, following a tender scandal for bed nets.

A statement from his office said President Ruto had appointed Mr Irungu Nyakera as the new chairperson of the KEMSA board and reconstituted the board by appointing Mr Hezbon Oyieko Omollo, Mr Bernard Kipkirui Bett, Dr Jane Masiga and Ms Jane Mbatia as members.

Dr Andrew Mutava Mulwa has been appointed Acting CEO of KEMSA.

Also read: Help us to redeem Kemsa’s tainted name, CEO Ramadhani asks Kenyans