We'll demand EACC audit if Kwale water shortage persists, says MP Tayari

Kinango Member of Parliament Benjamin Tayari consults with water communication officer Marere Hassan on a three-month shortage, January 16, 2018. /Chari Suche
Kinango Member of Parliament Benjamin Tayari consults with water communication officer Marere Hassan on a three-month shortage, January 16, 2018. /Chari Suche

Kinango MP Benjamin Tayari has threatened to storm the anti-corruption office in Nairobi to ask for the audit of Kwale's water officials.

The MP expressed disappointment on Tuesday, saying the Kwale water and sewerage company has failed locals as the county has been grappling with shortages for three months.

"Why is Mombasa getting water throughout while Kwale has none yet we are the main supplier?"

Tayari, who addressed the press accompanied by Senator Issa Boy, said they will have top officers questioned on why water bills have been a persistent problem yet the firm receives revenue.

He added: "We are tired of hearing excuses that power was disconnected and that there is no water in Kwale. We can persevere with the poor roads, but not water scarcity."

The MP noted water supply is a devolved function "but because some county officials aren't doing their work effectively", operations have been affected.

"We are now buying water for locals as we cannot bear seeing our people drinking untreated water," he added.

Boy said he was disappointed by the manner in which county officials work with other leaders.

"We have come to discuss water issues in Kwale but the county executive for water is leaving yet he has seen us. Is that how we will be settling problems in the county?"

The two spoke at Kwale water offices where they went to seek explanations for the lack of the commodity.

An outstanding power bill of Sh10.5 million is yet to be settled by the firm.

The firm's communication officer said they sought the county's help in settling the bill and assured residents they will have water before the end of the week.

"Officials have gone to pay the bill. We will restore services soon," Marere Hassan said.

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