By our team
The saga surrounding the employment of Kisumu City Manager Michael Abala Wanga is more than an administrative mishap. It is a vivid portrait of how impunity grows when public officers treat institutions as suggestions instead of systems.
At the heart of the controversy lies open disregard for the rule of law. The former Kisumu County Public Service Board (PSB) had declined to renew Wanga’s contract, citing legitimate concerns about his qualifications. That decision should have been final.
Instead, senior county officials including the County Secretary, Finance CEC, Chief Finance Officer, and members of the old PSB allegedly defied the board’s directive and kept Wanga in office. Their actions amount to a calculated abuse of authority.
Reports now show that Wanga’s salary was processed through payment vouchers rather than the official payroll system. This points to deliberate concealment and financial impropriety. For officers charged with safeguarding public funds, such conduct is inexcusable.
The issue has already drawn the attention of the police. A recorded statement confirms that investigators are treating the irregular employment and payments as potential criminal acts. The real question is who gave the orders and who benefited.
The role of Hongo, the former PSB CEO and now County Secretary, also raises serious questions. His participation in both the board’s decision and its later implementation creates a clear conflict of interest.
This matter is not just about one city manager. It is about the integrity of governance in Kisumu County. When those meant to enforce accountability become the violators, public service collapses into personal interest.
The law is clear. Abuse of office and willful violation of procedure are criminal offenses. The EACC and DPP must act decisively to restore public confidence and protect the principles of integrity and accountability.
Defying lawful institutions is not leadership. It is corruption in authority’s clothing and Kisumu must draw the line.
Our efforts to reach the said officers proved futile as non of our concerns were addressed as texts messages remained unreplied.
