Senate Committee Fines Charity Ngilu 500,000

Written By Lisa Murimi

Former Kitui governor Charity Ngilu is facing a Sh500,000 fine for failing to appear before the Senate County Public Investments and Special Funds Committee to address concerns over the Kitui County Textile Centre (Kicotec). 

Ngilu was scheduled to appear on October 7, 2024, but did not honor the summons, leading the committee to take swift action.

The committee, chaired by Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi, is investigating Kicotec’s financial statements and land ownership issues. 

Ngilu’s absence has raised concerns, and she has been issued fresh summons to appear at a later date.

“We cannot resolve this matter without the presence of the former governor,” Osotsi said, emphasizing the importance of Ngilu’s cooperation in addressing Kicotec’s financial challenges, which were highlighted in audit reports for 2019/20, 2020/21, and 2021/22.

During the session, former Kitui County Chief Officer of Trade and Investments, Justus Makau, was questioned about Kicotec’s occupation of land and irregular financial practices involving frequent cash withdrawals by two officials.

The committee is invoking legal powers to compel Ngilu and other officials to testify, as they seek transparency and accountability in Kicotec’s operations.