The Senate has pushed back against allegations by the Council of Governors (CoG), warning that attempts to undermine Senate committees could weaken accountability in county governments.
In a statement issued by the Office of the Speaker of the Senate, the House said it had noted with concern claims by the CoG regarding the operations of two key oversight committees — the County Public Accounts Committee (CPAC) and the County Public Investments and Special Funds Committee (CPIC).
The Senate expressed grave concern over what it termed as demands by the governors to reconstitute the CPAC, citing alleged political witch-hunts, harassment, extortion and intimidation by unnamed committee members.
It also faulted the governors’ decision to suspend appearances before CPAC until structured talks are held with Senate leadership, and to limit appearances before CPIC to once per audit cycle.
The Senate reaffirmed that its oversight role over county governments is firmly anchored in the Constitution. It cited Article 96(3), which mandates the Senate to oversee national revenue allocated to counties, and Article 96(1), which requires the House to protect the interests of counties and their governments.
The statement further noted that audit committees operate under Article 229, which requires Parliament to consider and dispose of audit reports within three months of receiving them from the Auditor-General — no later than 31st March each year.
“Any actions that delay or block this process undermine accountability and the prudent use of public resources,” the Senate warned.
While reaffirming its commitment to constructive dialogue with county leaders, the Senate urged the Council of Governors to use established institutional channels to raise concerns, rather than resorting to public statements and unproven allegations.
The Senate said it remains committed to ensuring that oversight of public funds allocated to counties is robust, objective and timely.
