Bungoma’s KSh 3.6M Christmas Tree Scandal Sparks Senate Probe
Senate Flags Early Christmas Spending
Bungoma County has returned to the spotlight over controversial public spending. This time, auditors question a Christmas event funded months early.
In September 2019, the county spent KSh 3.6 million on a Christmas tree lighting ceremony. However, the holiday was still three months away. Consequently, the Senate County Public Accounts Committee (CPAC) flagged the expenditure as suspicious. Senators questioned the urgency and legality of the payment.
Documents show officials requested the funds on September 9. Therefore, lawmakers doubted whether the event qualified as legitimate county business. Some senators openly mocked the timing during the session. They suggested Bungoma might follow a “different calendar” altogether.
Conflicting Records Raise Red Flags
Meanwhile, investigators uncovered conflicting descriptions in official paperwork. Some records labeled the payment as benchmarking facilitation rather than celebration costs. However, witness accounts described a festive ceremony with Christmas decorations. Attendees reportedly wore holiday hats and gathered in tents.
One senator criticized the event as unprofessional and wasteful. He questioned its value to public service delivery.
Committee chair Senator Moses Kajwang’ condemned the spending strongly. He warned that unaccounted public funds damage public trust. Therefore, senators demanded clear documentation explaining how the money was used. They insisted accountability must follow questionable expenditures.
Governor Lusaka Distances Himself
Current Governor Ken Lusaka appeared before the committee to respond. However, he emphasized the spending occurred under a previous administration. He urged senators not to link him personally to the scandal. Nevertheless, he promised cooperation with investigators.
Lusaka stated he would pursue individuals responsible for the payment. He also asked for fairness in media reporting.
Stadium Project Adds to Audit Concerns
Additionally, the committee raised alarms about Masinde Muliro Stadium. Officials claim the project stands 95 percent complete. However, a July 2025 inspection showed stalled construction. The contractor reportedly abandoned the site over a year ago.
Senators described the situation as unethical and unacceptable. Consequently, they recommended immediate escalation to the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission.
Lawmakers now push for arrests and prosecutions where necessary. Ultimately, the widening investigation deepens public concern over county financial management.
