Senator David Wakoli addressing mourners at Soi on Tuesday…Photo/IP
James Saisi/SOY, Uasin GISHU
Bungoma Senator David Wakoli on Tuesday reaffirmed the Senate’s oversight mandate, telling mourners at the funeral of Mama Esther Tapsiarga Lelei that accountability remains central to protecting devolution and public resources.
Wakoli joined parliamentary leaders, including the Speakers of the National Assembly and Senate, and local leaders to condole with the family of Uasin Gishu Senator Jackson Mandago who buried their matriarch, describing her as a pillar to her family and community.
But alongside messages of condolence, the senator used the moment to reiterate the Senate’s constitutional role in supervising county governments.
“The Senate remains resolute in upholding accountability, protecting the spirit of devolution, and faithfully discharging its constitutional mandate on behalf of the people of Kenya,” Wakoli said.
He added that governors must accept scrutiny as part of leadership under the devolved system.
“Governors must embrace accountability without complaint — devolution is under their leadership, and oversight is not a witch-hunt but a duty we will never abdicate,” he said.
The remarks come amid ongoing tensions between senators and some county governments over appearances before Senate committees and financial accountability processes, which senators maintain are grounded in law and constitutional responsibility.
In recent Senate sessions, county executives — including those from Bungoma and Trans Nzoia — have faced detailed questioning on financial management, staffing, project implementation and pending obligations.
Senate leaders have consistently maintained that such sessions are routine accountability processes designed to safeguard public funds and strengthen devolution.
Wakoli has been vocal on financial oversight matters affecting Bungoma County, particularly on issues touching on salaries, pensions, pending bills and project expenditure, arguing that strong accountability structures ultimately protect both county governments and residents.
During the funeral service, Wakoli urged leaders to remain committed to public service and integrity, noting that leadership is measured not only by development projects but also by stewardship of public resources.
As Senate oversight activities continue across counties, lawmakers insist the process is intended to strengthen devolved governance — even when it occasionally involves long committee sessions, detailed financial questions and requests for documents that counties may not always have readily at hand.
