Koitaleel, Maasai Mara universities under fire over missing records, unapproved payments
The morning session centred on Koitaleel Samoei University College, where audits revealed that inventories valued at Sh1,307,059 were released without proper approvals from departmental heads.
National Assembly’s Public Investments Committee on Governance and Education intensified its oversight of Kenyan universities on Wednesday, spotlighting financial mismanagement and governance weaknesses across higher learning institutions.
Members of Parliament examined records, questioned decisions, and demanded accountability for public funds.
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The morning session centred on Koitaleel Samoei University College, where audits revealed that inventories valued at Sh1,307,059 were released without proper approvals from departmental heads.
Management cited staff shortages during the early days under former Principal Prof Gideon Misoi, but committee members pressed for robust accountability measures to prevent recurrence.
Further investigations uncovered missing delivery notes, inspection reports, and invoices for a standby generator and an elevated water tank project, together costing Sh10,234,176.
The committee ordered the university to submit all missing documents within seven days. Additionally, it demanded a full list of staff involved in construction works after reports showed some personnel were paid 30 per cent below market rates.
Former council members were surcharged Sh764,600 for improper transport and accommodation claims, with recovery expected within three months.
In the afternoon, Maasai Mara University came under scrutiny after its council members failed to appear before the committee six times. They are now required to attend hearings on 3 December 2025.
MPs questioned the decision to convert an old bus into a staff cafeteria despite technical advice to dispose of it.
The committee also raised concerns over Sh13.2 million in mileage and sitting allowances paid to council members who had submitted apologies, citing irregularities in attendance records that need further verification.
Payments made for legal services amounting to Sh12 million without following pre-qualified procurement processes were also flagged.
MP Kakai Bisau noted this practice as a worrying trend that threatens the proper use of public resources.
Committee Chair MP Wanami Wamboka emphasised that oversight would remain strict, saying, "This Committee will conduct site inspections, follow up on outstanding documentation and pursue recovery and surcharges where public resources have been misapplied to protect taxpayers and restore public trust."
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