The Office of the Controller of Budget has rejected Meru Senator Kathuri Murungi’s request to halt withdrawals from the County Revenue Fund (CRF).
Senator Murungi had written to Controller of Budget Margaret Nyakang’o, asking her to block financial transactions from the CRF following the Senate’s impeachment of Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza.
The impeachment was based on accusations of gross violation of the Constitution, misconduct, and abuse of office.
In her response, Nyakang’o explained that, due to a court order temporarily suspending the impeachment, she cannot legally stop withdrawals from the CRF.
“In light of the court order halting the implementation of the Senate’s resolution to remove the Governor of Meru County from office, it means the Governor remains in office until the court issues further orders. Therefore, the Governor retains the authority to assent to the Appropriation Bill as per Section 24(1)(a) of the County Governments Act,” Nyakang’o stated.
She added, “Given the court orders and the Appropriations Act being signed into law, our office cannot comply with your request to withhold authorization for withdrawals from the Meru County Revenue Fund. Our office is committed to upholding the rule of law and will adhere to any future court orders on this matter.”
Meanwhile, Meru Members of County Assembly (MCAs) allied with Governor Mwangaza have criticized Senator Murungi, accusing him of hindering development in the county.
They also condemned the ongoing protests in Meru County against Governor Mwangaza’s return to office, emphasizing that she is legally in office according to the court order until a final decision is made on September 17.