“Sh150 Million for Launches? Rutto Slams Governor Bii Over Ward-to-Ward Bursary Tours”

Kesses MP Hon. CPA Julius Rutto has sharply criticized Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Bii Chelilim over what he termed as unnecessary and costly ward-to-ward launches of the county bursary fund.

Speaking during a public event in Kesses Constituency, Rutto questioned the rationale behind moving across all wards to launch the same bursary programme, arguing that the exercise is consuming huge amounts of public resources that could otherwise benefit residents.

The legislator claimed that nearly Sh150 million is being spent on the launch activities despite the bursary fund itself amounting to Sh185 million.

"It does not make sense to spend Sh150 million moving around the county launching the same bursary fund using a single cheque. Those resources should be directed towards improving services and supporting more needy students," said Rutto.

The MP urged the county administration to embrace prudent use of public funds and prioritize development projects that directly impact wananchi.

At the same time, Rutto came to the defense of Uasin Gishu Senator Kiprotich Cherargei following recent claims about the existence of ghost workers within the county government payroll.

According to the Kesses lawmaker, the senator was merely executing his constitutional oversight mandate by raising concerns over alleged irregularities in county staffing.

"Senator Cherargei is performing his oversight role as required by law. When questions arise regarding public resources and employment within the county government, it is his duty to seek accountability on behalf of residents," Rutto stated.

The MP called for transparency and thorough investigations into the allegations, saying accountability in public service remains essential for effective governance.

His remarks are likely to intensify the ongoing political debate in Uasin Gishu County over public spending, governance, and accountability as leaders continue to trade accusations over the management of county affairs.

The county government has yet to formally respond to the claims raised by the MP regarding the bursary launch expenditures and the allegations concerning ghost workers.