According to The Standard Digital, Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka has raised serious concerns about the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission’s (EACC) plan to spend Ksh1.5 billion on renovating its headquarters.
The senator questioned why such a massive budget had been allocated for renovations when the same amount could be used to construct a brand-new building at a lower cost.
His remarks have ignited public debate, with Kenyans questioning whether this is a justified expenditure or yet another case of wasteful spending.
Onyonka argued that EACC could build a new headquarters for about Ksh500 million instead of spending three times that amount on renovations. This raises concerns about possible mismanagement of public funds. If EACC, which is supposed to fight corruption, is involved in questionable financial decisions, then it sets a bad example for other institutions.
Many Kenyans are now asking whether the commission is truly committed to fighting corruption or if it is part of the problem.The timing of this revelation is also alarming. The country is struggling with high debt, increased taxation, and a high cost of living. Many essential services, such as healthcare and education, are underfunded, yet EACC sees it fit to spend an outrageous amount on office renovations.
This exposes a worrying trend where public funds are misused under the guise of development projects. If a body meant to ensure accountability is engaging in questionable spending, then who will hold it accountable?
The public outcry on social media is a clear indication that Kenyans are tired of seeing their money wasted. Many are now demanding transparency and a clear breakdown of how EACC arrived at the Ksh1.5 billion figure.
There are also calls for investigations to determine if the budgeting process was manipulated for personal gain. Some Kenyans argue that such cases should be handled with the same seriousness as corruption scandals in other government agencies.
So far, EACC has not given any official response to the senator’s concerns. However, experts in government procurement believe that such a large budget for renovations should be justified with a detailed cost breakdown. Without this, it is impossible to determine whether the amount is reasonable or simply another scheme to misuse public funds.
The fact that EACC has remained silent only raises more suspicion.This incident further erodes public trust in institutions that are supposed to uphold integrity. If the commission is serious about fighting corruption, it must start by ensuring its own financial dealings are above board.
Otherwise, it risks becoming just another government agency that preaches accountability while engaging in questionable financial practices. Kenyans deserve better, and it is time for institutions like EACC to lead by example instead of becoming part of the corruption they claim to fight.
