Kisii MCA Challenges 'Etaya' Branding of Public Projects, Citing Misuse of Taxpayer Funds

Masimba Ward Member of County Assembly (MCA) Bouse Mairura has voiced strong objections to what he terms the "personalization" of publicly funded projects within Kisii County. Mairura specifically targeted the use of the name "Etaya" to brand various county initiatives, asserting that such practices undermine accountability and politicize resources meant for all residents. His concerns highlight a recurring debate in Kenyan governance regarding the distinction between public service and political branding.

Among the projects drawing Mairura's scrutiny is the ongoing Kisii County Tournament, widely publicized as the "Etaya Tournament," despite being financed through the county's budget. He pointed out that the sports department received an allocation of Sh50 million in the current financial year, emphasizing that these funds are public resources. The MCA also questioned the "Etaya" branding for high-mast lighting installations across the county, noting these are funded by the Financially Locally-Led Climate Action (FLLoCA) programme, a scheme supported by the World Bank. Additionally, the county's milk distribution program has also been linked to the "Etaya" identifier.

Mairura clarified that his support for programs benefiting Kisii residents remains steadfast, but he insisted that initiatives funded by the county budget must be recognized as belonging to the Kisii County Government and, by extension, its citizens. He articulated a fundamental principle: "Milk purchased through county resources is purchased with public money. It is a programme of the people of Kisii County and should be communicated as such." He underscored the importance of upholding Articles 73 and 201 of the Constitution, which mandate integrity in public office and transparent, accountable management of public finances – crucial tenets for good governance across East Africa.

The MCA explicitly stated that his critique was not intended to deny Governor Simba Arati credit for development efforts. Instead, his aim is to preserve the critical separation between governmental functions and political maneuvering, public funds and personal assets, and official programs versus campaign activities. Mairura urged oversight and accountability bodies, including the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), to thoroughly examine the branding and utilization of these publicly funded projects.

"The Governor is the head of the County Government, but the County Government is not his personal property," Mairura declared, stressing that all county sports funds, FLLoCA-supported infrastructure, the milk program, and other publicly financed ventures are the collective property of Kisii County residents. He maintained that public projects should always be attributed to the implementing institution—the Kisii County Government—and ultimately, the people it serves. Mairura, who has expressed interest in the Nyaribari Masaba parliamentary seat for the 2027 General Election, concluded by stating this principle should apply to all leaders, including himself, advocating for development while defending accountability. His statement was also shared with World Bank Kenya and the World Bank Group. "Kisii County is bigger than Etaya. Public money belongs to Mwananchi. Public projects belong to Mwananchi. And public institutions must remain public," he asserted. This report is based on information initially published by Kahawa Tungu.