Nairobi: The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has summoned Kisumu City Manager Michael Abala Wanga to report immediately to Integrity Centre in Nairobi. This directive follows allegations of forgery, fraud, and abuse of office that have been leveled against him.
According to Kenya News Agency, EACC Chief Executive Officer Abdi Mohamud announced that the Commission has obtained approval from the Director of Public Prosecutions to charge Wanga with several offenses. These charges arise from investigations into his conduct during his tenure as City Manager. The allegations include the use of forged academic certificates to fraudulently secure his appointment.
Further investigations by the Commission revealed that Wanga allegedly used falsified documents to facilitate the travel of a female non-staff member to Lagos, Nigeria, between July 8 and 12, 2024. This was done under the pretense that she was a Kisumu County employee, allowing her to claim county-funded allowances.
The EACC stated that these actions led to the fraudulent appropriation of public resources, prompting the decision to prosecute. Wanga is expected to face four charges, including forgery under the Penal Code, fraudulent acquisition of public property under the Anti-Corruption and Economic Crimes Act, uttering false documents, and presenting forged certificates contrary to the Kenya National Examinations Council Act.
The Commission’s statement emphasized the need for Wanga to comply with the summons promptly, marking a significant step in their ongoing efforts to address integrity issues within county administrations.