Ruto Under Fire: Officials Accused of Using Kenyans’ IDs for Company Scams
Trans Nzoia Senator Allan Chesang has urged President William Ruto to establish a task force to probe the Access to Government Procurement Opportunities (AGPO) program, citing allegations of fraud and bribery.
Speaking during an interdenominational prayer service at Cheptais Boys High School in Trans Nzoia County, Chesang claimed that AGPO has failed to deliver its intended benefits to Kenyan youth due to widespread corruption. The event, attended by the President, provided a platform for Chesang to voice his concerns.
“Your Excellency, please form a task force to investigate AGPO within your administration,” Chesang appealed.
The Senator alleged that some individuals within AGPO exploit marginalized groups, including youth, women, and persons with disabilities (PWDs), by using their identification cards to register companies without their consent. This malpractice, he argued, diverts funds meant for these groups into the hands of a few, defeating the program’s purpose.
Launched in 2013, AGPO was designed to empower women, youth, and PWDs by reserving 30% of government procurement opportunities for them. The initiative, introduced under the leadership of former President Uhuru Kenyatta and then-Deputy President William Ruto, aimed to promote inclusivity and economic empowerment.
Despite these goals, Chesang claimed that AGPO’s impact has been limited, with youth unemployment still rampant. He urged the President to address the issue, stating, “If a task force ensures that the 30% allocation reaches the youth, we can create jobs and provide them with meaningful opportunities.”
While President Ruto did not respond directly to the Senator’s plea, Chesang’s call for accountability comes amid growing criticism of government institutions accused of corruption.
Political analysts have expressed skepticism over the effectiveness of task forces, noting that past initiatives often fail to produce actionable outcomes. However, the Senator remains optimistic that an investigation into AGPO could be a vital step toward addressing the unemployment crisis and ensuring funds reach their rightful beneficiaries.
AGPO was initially designed to simplify access to public tenders for marginalized groups by waiving requirements such as bid bonds or prior experience. Despite its noble intentions, allegations of mismanagement and lack of oversight continue to raise questions about its transparency and effectiveness.
Ruto Under Fire: Officials Accused of Using Kenyans’ IDs for Company Scams
