Kenya’s devolved system of government depends heavily on institutions that ensure proper coordination between the national administration and counties, but one such body has now become the subject of controversy. The Intergovernmental Relations Technical Committee, which was once expected to be a pillar of cooperation, is struggling under allegations of corruption and mismanagement tied to its Chief Executive Officer, Kipkirui Chepkwony.
Insiders say the problems within the agency are not just minor mistakes but deep issues that threaten the very survival of the committee.
At the center of the crisis is the claim that KSh 250 million meant for important government programmes was diverted into what staff members describe as the CEO’s personal mansion project in Karen.
This huge amount, represents a clear violation of public finance laws and an example of abuse of office.
The money trail has left behind a damaged institution, with delays in paying salaries, suppliers going unpaid, and projects that were meant to improve intergovernmental relations stalled indefinitely.
One senior staff member bitterly remarked that the CEO has positioned himself as the ultimate authority within the organization, making decisions that have strangled the agency’s core mandate.
Apart from the financial scandal, the CEO is also accused of creating a hostile work environment. Employees allege that Chepkwony has fostered a culture of intimidation and favoritism, where those who challenge him are sidelined while loyalists enjoy privileges regardless of merit.
Former acting CEO Agnes Ndwiga is said to have been publicly humiliated and stripped of responsibilities, an action seen by staff as part of a pattern of bullying.
Even the chairman of the board, CPA Kithinji Kiragu, has reportedly been reduced to a ceremonial figure, struggling with limited resources while the CEO enjoys multiple fuel-guzzling vehicles at taxpayers’ expense.
Other claims include the illegal retention of ghost workers, where salaries continue to be drawn for individuals who no longer serve the committee.
Sources say this practice drains millions every month, worsening the agency’s financial troubles.
Meanwhile, legitimate staff have seen their benefits and privileges downgraded unilaterally by the CEO, creating insecurity and resentment within the workforce.
The situation is made worse by suspicions of political protection. Chepkwony is said to boast of close ties with Felix Koskei, the Head of Public Service, which many believe explains why the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission has remained silent despite the seriousness of the allegations.
This political cover has left staff feeling abandoned and the public wondering whether accountability is still possible.
The impact of the ongoing crisis goes beyond the walls of IGRTC. The agency’s work is central to ensuring coordination in service delivery, budgeting, and policy across the 47 counties.
Its dysfunction threatens to create gaps in implementation and weakens the entire devolved structure. Reports of stalled projects and growing mistrust now hang over an institution that should ideally serve as a neutral bridge between competing interests of different levels of government.
For many employees, the agency has become a place of fear and uncertainty, where executive impunity overrides the rule of law.
Without firm action from oversight bodies, the IGRTC risks total collapse, leaving counties and the national government without a crucial link in governance.
