Wednesday, 2 April, 2025
PAC grills transport PS Mohamed Daghar over audit queries for fy 2022/2023𝐁𝐮𝐧𝐠𝐞 𝐓𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐬, 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐥𝐢𝐚𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐁𝐮𝐢𝐥𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬. 𝐀𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐥 𝟏𝐬𝐭, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓
The scrutiny of public funds took center stage today as the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) interrogated the audited financial statements of the State Department for Transport for the financial year ending June 2023.
The session, chaired by Butere MP Hon. Tindi Mwale, brought together PAC members, auditors, and senior government officials in a bid to ensure transparency and accountability in the management of public resources.
Transport Principal Secretary Mr. Mohamed Daghar, flanked by top officials from the Ministry of Roads and Transport, appeared before the committee to respond to audit queries raised by the Office of the Auditor-General. Among the issues flagged were budget variances, pending bills, irregular procurement, and the underutilization of funds allocated for key infrastructure projects.
During the deliberations, PAC members demanded answers on why several road projects remained incomplete despite full budgetary allocations in the previous financial year.
“How do we explain to Kenyans that billions were allocated for roads, yet projects remain stalled? We need clear accountability on where these funds went,” Hon. Mwale stated.
Committee members also raised concerns over inefficiencies in public transport management, procurement of road safety equipment, and the sustainability of critical transport infrastructure programs. Mathioya MP Hon. Edwin Mugo was particularly vocal, warning against mismanagement.
"The taxpayers expect accountability. We will not allow wastage or inefficiencies that hinder service delivery," he asserted.
In his defense, PS Daghar attributed some financial discrepancies to delays in disbursements, bureaucratic procurement processes, and unforeseen project challenges.
“Some of these delays were beyond our control, particularly when it came to procurement approvals and exchequer releases. However, we remain committed to ensuring funds are utilized efficiently,” Daghar assured the committee.
Despite his explanations, PAC members remained firm, insisting on greater efficiency and strict adherence to financial regulations. The committee requested further clarifications and supporting documents, with recommendations expected once all responses are reviewed.