Monday, 12 May, 2025
"Respect the Committee": Senators faults Nyandarua over governance failures
Bunge TowerFriday, 9th May 2025
The Senate Public Investments and Special Funds Committee has sharply criticized Nyandarua Governor Moses Kiarie Badilisha over delays in implementing audit reforms at Nyandarua Water Company, Olkalou Water Company, and Olkalou Municipality for the 2023/24 financial year. Despite resolutions issued by the Senate on October 9, 2023, significant progress remains lacking, prompting frustration among committee members.
Committee Chair Senator Godfrey Osotsi set the tone early, stating, “Governor Badilisha, this committee is not a debating club… Where is the substantive progress?”
Senator Raphael Chimera questioned the delay in acquiring CR12 documents, which are critical for the governance of water companies and can typically be obtained within a day. “How can it take months to produce a document that should only take a day? This is basic governance, Governor. You need to be more serious about managing your county. Failure to implement these resolutions is not just negligence—it’s disrespectful to this committee.”
Machakos Senator Agnes Kavindu emphasized the impact of the delays on residents: “When will the people of Olkalou see decisive action rather than repeated explanations?”
Nominated Senator Peris Tobiko added, “Is Nyandarua above the resolutions of this House/Committee? Non-compliance is simply unacceptable.”
In response, Governor Badilisha acknowledged the delays but outlined steps his administration has taken. “We hold the Senate’s resolutions in high regard," he said. "Boards for both water companies are fully constituted, and CR-12s have been filed. An internal audit committee is operational in Olkalou Municipality, and asset verification is underway. While some processes have taken longer than anticipated, we remain committed to full compliance.”
The committee has given the county executive a tight deadline to provide evidence of action on the 2023 resolutions and address the latest audit queries, signalling little tolerance for further delays.