Senate Committee Orders IG to Produce Sakaja Over Audit Queries

The Senate County Public Accounts Committee has fined Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja KSh 500,000 after he failed to honour four separate summons to appear before the committee.

The committee took the action following what it described as repeated disregard for its authority, despite giving the governor several opportunities to present himself and respond to audit concerns. 

Members said the failure to appear had slowed down efforts to review key financial matters affecting Nairobi County.

As part of its directive, the committee has now ordered Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja to ensure Sakaja is presented before it on Monday.

The governor is expected to respond to audit queries relating to the 2024/2025 financial year.

Committee members stressed that the summons are not optional and must be treated with the seriousness they deserve.

They noted that accountability is a key part of public service, especially when it comes to the use of public funds.

The lawmakers warned that failure by the governor to appear as directed could lead to more serious consequences.

Among the options being considered is a formal determination on his fitness to hold office, which could then be forwarded to the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) for further action.

According to the committee, the audit queries under review are significant and require direct answers from the county leadership.

Members said written responses alone would not be sufficient, insisting that the governor must appear in person to clarify the issues raised.

The committee also expressed concern about what it termed as a growing trend among some public officials who ignore summons from oversight bodies.

It warned that such behaviour undermines institutions meant to ensure transparency and accountability in government.

At the same time, the fine imposed on Sakaja is intended to send a clear message that failure to comply with lawful summons carries consequences.

The committee maintained that its role is to safeguard public resources and ensure that taxpayers’ money is used properly.

Sakaja has yet to publicly respond to the committee’s latest action. However, the situation is likely to draw public attention, given the importance of Nairobi County and the scale of its budget.

Observers say the coming days will be crucial, as the governor is expected to either comply with the order or face the possibility of further legal and political action.

The involvement of the police chief also raises the stakes, signalling that the matter is being treated with urgency.