Workers in Kisumu have been warned over corruption cases as they are on the radar of the Directorate of Criminal Investigations and the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission.
Kisumu city manager Abala Wanga directed staff to uphold high levels of integrity while discharging their mandate to residents.
He said the administration of Governor Anyang Nyong’o does not condone corruption and will not hesitate to take action against those found guilty.
While speaking in a local radio station, Wanga regretted that some staff had been using his name to solicit bribes from the public.
“This is unacceptable and must end. Stop using my name to take bribes from those on the wrong side of the law. I will take stern action against anybody engaged in corrupt activities,” he said.
Wanga cited an incident where a senior staff member allegedly used his name and took Sh150,000 from a private developer as ‘protection fee’.
The developer and the county government are in tussle over public land meant for a market at Bandani area in Kisumu West subcounty.
He revealed that the matter was brought to his attention and is under investigations.
“We questioned those accused and they said they were not aware. As we speak, DCI is probing the matter. Very soon you will see action,” he said.
He did not give names of those being probed.
Wanga said they had earmarked the building for demolition to pave way for the development of the market, but the exercise was halted due to a court case.
The city manager warned the public to be wary of rogue officers who are hell-bent to extort their hard earned money purporting to help them get services.
Wanga said nobody should pay bribe to get government services. “You should report such persons immediately to relevant authorities for appropriate action,” he added.
In another case, a senior staff member was accused of taking Sh30,000 from a desperate woman to help drive out those who have invaded her land.
After receiving the money, the officer engaged the woman in a cat and mouse game, according to the victim. The matter is also under investigation.
Wanga also put on notice land owners and institutions to strictly follow rules and regulations when putting up structures to avoid disasters.
He said the county will not tolerate individuals erecting buildings on top of drainage and sewer lines.
Wanga cited the Kisumu-Kakamega road where institutions have allowed people to erect structures on drainages and spaces meant for pathways.
He advised institutions located along the road, like schools, churches and petrol stations to ensure they leave space for the construction of walkways as required.
“You should leave about 2.5 metres between your walls and pathways. We are going to plant flowers between the walls and pathways as part of city beautification,” he said.
Wanga said he recently found a woman roasting maize at a petrol station which poses a grave risk to the public.
“This was a disaster waiting to happen. It is unfortunate and regrettable. Our people must obey the laid down rules for their own good,” he said.
He said the manager of the petrol was immediately summoned and directed to ensure maximum safety at the station.
