Siaya Governor James Orengo appeared on Thursday before the County Public Accounts Committee to respond to questions stemming from the Auditor General’s report for the 2024/2025 financial year and the county’s Revenue Fund statements.
In a statement shared on his X account, Orengo emphasized that his appearance was part of his constitutional duty to ensure accountability in public resource management. "To uphold my constitutional mandate, I appeared before the County Public Accounts Committee today to answer questions on the Auditor General’s FY 2024/2025 report and our County Revenue Fund statements," he said.
Strengthening Accountability in County Governments
The governor’s engagement comes amid intensified scrutiny of county administrations by oversight bodies aiming to enhance transparency and fiscal responsibility. County Public Accounts Committees are tasked with reviewing audit findings and requiring governors and accounting officers to clarify any discrepancies noted by the Auditor General.
This session coincides with broader oversight efforts across counties, as Parliament and county assemblies push for stricter compliance with public finance management regulations.
County Governments Face Heightened Oversight
On the same day, the Senate Standing Committee on Finance and Budget directed Migori County to submit procurement compliance documents within seven days to align with the Public Procurement Regulatory Authority (PPRA) standards. The committee, led by Mandera Senator Ali Roba, criticized Migori County for presenting critical procurement records late, which limited adequate review time.
Senator Roba urged, "Once a letter is written to you, please submit the documents within the timeline specified in the letter, so that before you appear, we can share with the respective authorities in time and ensure senators interact with the documents." Migori Governor Ochillo Ayacko explained that previous reporting gaps were addressed through targeted training for finance staff on the Public Procurement Information Portal.
Ongoing Efforts to Enforce Fiscal Discipline
The increased oversight reflects ongoing efforts by legislative bodies to enforce prudent public fund management and adherence to the Public Finance Management Act. Governor Orengo’s testimony is expected to assist the County Public Accounts Committee in evaluating the Auditor General’s findings and shaping recommendations on Siaya County’s financial governance for the 2024/2025 fiscal year.
