Intern's death not linked to tender at Treasury - PS Kiptoo

National Treasury Principal Secretary Chris Kiptoo has clarified the circumstances surrounding the death of Evans Kipchirchir, an intern at the Ministry, who was found dead in Machakos County.

In a statement released on Thursday, Kiptoo clarified that Kipchirchir’s death, which occurred on August 31, was a result of a road traffic accident and was not connected to his work at the National Treasury.

Kiptoo said Kipchirchir joined the National Treasury under the Public Service Internship Program (PSIP), Cohort 6, on February 1, 2024, and was assigned to the procurement section.

He, however, noted that as an intern, he was not involved in any decision-making processes related to tenders or procurement.

The clarification comes amid allegations that Kipchirchir had previously expressed concerns for his safety regarding a Sh286 million tender.

Despite the claims, the National Treasury confirmed that Kipchirchir was not on official duty at the time of his death.

“His disappearance occurred on the evening of Saturday, August 31, 2024, in the Kyumvi area, Machakos Junction, while he was returning from a private function in Makueni,” Kiptoo explained.

The Treasury said it was informed of his disappearance and subsequent death report on Monday, September 2, 2024.

National Treasury PS Chris Kiptoo has clarified the circumstances surrounding the death of Evans Kipchirchir, an intern at the Ministry, who was found dead in Machakos County.

Kiptoo stated that Kipchirchir was not involved in any sensitive or decision-making roles within the… pic.twitter.com/ANEPAB2Rhd

— The Eastleigh Voice (@Eastleighvoice) September 5, 2024

His body was then found at Machakos Level 5 Hospital, where he had been registered as a victim of a road traffic accident on the night of August 31.

Kitoo further said the police report indicates that Kipchirchir was struck by a vehicle and emphasised that his death was unrelated to his professional duties.

“The Officer Commanding Station (OCS) Kyumvi has confirmed the arrest of the driver involved in the incident. A post-mortem examination is being conducted to ascertain the precise cause of death,” he said.

“It is important to emphasise that Chirchir’s passing was in no way related to his professional duties or any activities at the National Treasury.”

The National Treasury called for patience as investigative agencies continue their inquiry into the circumstances surrounding Kipchirchir's death.

“At this difficult time, we offer our deepest sympathies to his family and loved ones. We urge the public to refrain from circulating unverified and speculative information that could cause further distress to the family and harm the reputation of the National Treasury. We also call for patience as investigative agencies conduct their independent inquiry into the circumstances surrounding Chirchir's death,” Kiptoo said.