Kiambu Governor Kimani Wamatangi has strongly defended his recent appearance before the Senate, asserting that county governments have a constitutional obligation to account for every shilling of public money allocated to them. His remarks come amid heightened scrutiny of county finances and growing tensions between some governors and the Senate oversight committee.
Appearing before the Senate County Public Accounts Committee, Wamatangi emphasized that accountability is not optional but a fundamental requirement of devolved governance. The Governor fielded questions regarding the expenditure of funds allocated to Kiambu County, demonstrating transparency in how his administration has utilized public resources.
“It is my constitutional duty to account for funds allocated to Kiambu, and I have no problem appearing before any oversight body to explain how we have spent every shilling entrusted to us,” Wamatangi stated. “County governments must lead by example in ensuring that public funds are used for their intended purposes and that the people of Kenya get value for their money.”
The Governor’s cooperative stance stands in contrast to the approach taken by some of his colleagues who have previously clashed with senators over financial accountability. Wamatangi urged fellow governors to embrace oversight rather than view it as harassment, noting that transparency ultimately strengthens devolution and builds public trust.
“We requested additional funds through the County Government Additional Allocations Bill, and it is only right that we demonstrate we have been responsible managers of the resources already provided,” he added. “Kenyans deserve to know that their taxes are being put to good use.”
Wamatangi used the opportunity to outline his administration’s achievements in Kiambu, citing infrastructure development, healthcare improvements, and support for agricultural value chains as areas where county funds have delivered tangible results. He welcomed continued scrutiny, expressing confidence that his record would withstand examination.
Political observers note that Wamatangi’s approach may signal a shift in governor-senate relations, which have often been characterized by acrimony and accusations of overreach. By embracing accountability, the Kiambu Governor has positioned himself as a defender of devolution’s core principles while potentially easing tensions between the two levels of government.
As counties await disbursement of additional allocations, the spotlight on financial management grows ever brighter, with leaders like Wamatangi acknowledging that transparency remains the surest path to public confidence in devolved governance.
