Deputy Chief of Staff in charge of Delivery and Government Efficiency, Mr. Eliud Owalo, says the government has vowed to crack down on politically connected contractors who have caused delays in the delivery of government projects.
Mr. Owalo over the weekend issued a warning to contractors and civil servants leveraging on political connections to secure public contracts, vowing to crack down on individuals undermining service delivery through conflict of interest and procurement interference.
“We are witnessing a challenge in the implementation of projects where some contractors have political connections or ties with people in government,” Mr. Owalo said. “Let me make it clear: the award of contracts must remain within the confines of the Public Procurement and Asset Disposal Act. That Act does not recognize political connections or proximity to power.”
Owalo further added that the Kenya Kwanza government will not tolerate contractors hiding behind political patronage to deliver substandard or incomplete work.
“If you are awarded a government contract, you must deliver, regardless of the politician or official you know,” while condemning the practice of public servants doubling as contractors.
“We are liaising with relevant agencies to ensure those found engaging in conflict of interest face the full force of the law. Government officers must decide whether they are in public service or in business. There will be no middle ground,” he said.
