October 4, 2024

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Why Court stopped release of funds to Wajir County

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The Wajir county government yesterday suffered a major setback after High Court stopped the Controller of Budget from releasing funds to clear pending bills.

Decision follows a dispute over the bona fide governor with authority toapprove clearance of the
Sh2 billion owed to contractors and suppliers.

Anthony Mrima issued the interim order after being informed that both impeached Governor Mohamed Abdi and the new county boss Ahmed Ali Muktar are actively in office.

“Following the two conflicting centres of power at the devolved unit, there is a confusion on payment of the pending bills amounting to Sh2 billion. I therefore issue an interim order that bars payment of the debts and the same shall remain in force until a petition filed by three residents of Wajir county is determined,” Mrima ruled.

Judge explained that the interim order is intended to balance interests of both the county government and the unpaid suppliers.

He, however, clarified that the order does not affect release of funds for the development projects.

“CoB has agreed that the budget can be partially stayed,” Mrima added.

The court also declined to stop the execution of the budgetary estimates for development projects as urged by the petitioners.

Hearing of the main petition is set for November 10.

Credit:PD