One of the things that are associated with oversight – the core mandate of Parliament – is efficiency and prudent use of public resources.
Parliament, as it is established, is the true people’s watchdog. That is why representatives of the people come from all around the country – small communities and big tribes - so that there is equity.
We have seen over time the issue of functions of the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission and the office of Director of Public Prosecution that, to an extent, some of us feel they don’t work with alacrity.
When people misuse public resources, they must have their day in court.
We love it when a policeman, who has just picked Sh50 from a motorist, is whisked quickly to court.
We would love to see their uniforms taken away and they are hauled to court to face the full force of the law.
But in this case of Kenya Medical Supplies Authority, someone has stashed away millions and millions of shillings, but they are still walking free. They are still out there in the streets.
What we want is simple: Let the people have their day in court.
Let it not appear that it is in vain that the Auditor General or EACC produces reports. Their reports and recommendations must have the force of law.
Public resources should be protected. That is what the law requires. That is what is moral.
That is why those authorities – EACC, DPP, Auditor General and DCI – have been put in place by both the Constitution and the legislation.
For that reason, I wouldn’t be surprised by the complaints by Parliament and members of the public that people should have their day in court.
Since 2020 when Covid-19 broke out, it is less than four years down the line. Covid-19 is behind us. But there are some people who have been identified that so and so took that.
Therefore, I think we have no reason not to pursue those who have made away with public resources.
Saku MP spoke to the Star
