By Lauryne Akoth
The EACC is set to audit the Inua Jamii Cash transfer program for older persons and senior citizens on Wednesday 6th March 2024, from 2:30 pm.
According to a statement issued by EACC, the audit will be a 3-month compliance monitoring exercise of the program under the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection.
It will be carried out according to the Commission’s mandate under Section 11(1)(i) of the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission Act, 2011, which gives the Commission the authority, to on its motion, move into any state agency to monitor the agency’s practices and work procedures, to detect and secure revision of any methods of work or procedures found to be conducive to corruption.
The audit of the cash transfer program for senior citizens follows the conclusion and submission of the NHIF graft report by EACC. The report aimed to identify systemic loopholes and weaknesses that allow theft of public funds at the state agency.
The commission’s findings and recommendations were launched on 5th March 2024. In both instances, individuals who will be identified as having unlawfully gained from public funds, the Commission will not only recommend prosecution but also initiate civil suits to recover the misappropriated funds.
The launch of the audit will be officiated by EACC Commissioner Col (Rtd) Alfred Mshimba, MBS, and attended by top Ministry Officials led by Principal Secretaries of the two State Departments.
The commission revealed that their decision to audit the program was partly informed by its great significance to the public and the huge budgetary allocation to the program.
Furthermore, the commission announced plans for a similar ongoing exercise, targeting the implementation of dam projects under the Ministry of Water and Irrigation.