By Martin Masai

An investigation has been launched into the handling of a World Bank-funded infrastructure project in Machakos, following the controversial payment of Kes.35 million to a contractor alleged to have ties with top county officials.

At the center of the probe is Hayati Construction, a firm suspected to be a business front for a senior county leader.

The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC), in a letter to County Secretary Dr Muya Ndambuki, has demanded original documents related to the project, including payment records, bank details, and performance bonds.

Investigators believe the funds may have been used to finance a luxurious trip to China for the purchase of household furniture by the county leader.

The Kes. 89 million contract, for the upgrading of wholesale and retail markets, loop roads, and street lighting within Machakos Municipality, was initially awarded to Seluk Contractors.

However, under controversial circumstances, the contract was revoked and handed to Hayati Construction—a move that sparked a legal battle that is still ongoing in court.

Sources within the county government allege that Hayati Construction is the preferred contractor for Governor Wavinya Ndeti’s pet projects.

The firm receives multiple tenders, with county insiders overseeing its projects to ensure quick payments, even as hundreds of other contractors await settlement of pending bills amounting to Kes. 2.3 billion since the tenure of former Governor Alfred Mutua.

A letter from the EACC, dated May 22, 2024, and referenced as EACC.6/15/16(148), calls for the submission of key documents related to Tender No. GMC/KUSP/MKSMUN/02/2023-2024. Curiously, it is signed by Mr. Pascal Kasoa of the EACC, whose name features in many integrity conversations in the county.

The documents demanded include:

• The performance bond provided by Hayati Construction.
• Minutes from the inspection and acceptance committee.
• Payment vouchers, invoices, and other transaction records.
• Banking details of both the paying account and the contractor’s bank account.
• Any other relevant documents related to the procurement and execution of the project.

EACC officers S. Nyambu and G. Kering have been assigned to collect the documents, signalling a renewed push to uncover irregularities surrounding the project.

County officials and industry players claim that Hayati Construction enjoys preferential treatment, often receiving payments on time while other contractors struggle with overdue bills. This latest probe raises questions about procurement integrity and the influence of powerful figures in the county government.

As the investigation unfolds, stakeholders await to see whether accountability will prevail or if the case will become yet another stalled corruption probe.