Kericho Governor Eric Mutai has distanced himself from claims linking him to the misappropriation of funds collected to aid victims involved in the Londiani road crash.

The Governor refuted the claims, describing them as attempts by his political opponents to taint his name.

He accused his deputy Fred Kirui of acting contrary to the oath to perpetrate fights aimed at undermining his leadership.

“It is so unfortunate that those who are supposed to work under me to push the agendas we promised our people are at the forefront of trying to pull us back,” Mutai said.

Social media claims

He said reports circulated on social media showing a breakdown of payments made from the money collected, including those for medical bills, are false.

Mutai argued that the County Government waived all medical bills for every victim registered at all county hospitals in Kericho and that he is in talks with Governors in other counties where victims were transferred.

“I was shocked to see reports circulating on social media claiming that money was paid to hospitals to cover medical expenses,” he said.

He said he had directed the committee to ensure all the money collected during the fundraiser is shared among the victims and not used to cater to other expenses.

“I want to confirm here that my administration waived all medical expenses, and we have initiated talks with Governors from neighbouring counties to help us with the cases referred to hospitals outside Kericho,” he argued.

Investigation committee formed

He further confirmed that he has formed a committee of six members to audit how the money collected was used and that should anyone be found culpable for mismanagement, the law will take its hand.

“We won’t allow anyone to steal, even from the dead. We are taking this matter seriously,” he affirmed.