Gathoni Wamuchomba Urges Reform for Office of Controller of Budget
In a significant session chaired by Gathoni Wamuchomba, Member of Parliament for Githunguri, the parliamentary committee on constitutional implementation convened to address critical issues surrounding the Office of the Controller of Budget (OCOB). The meeting highlighted the urgent need for reforms to empower independent government bodies in line with the spirit of the 2010 Constitution.
Wamuchomba emphasized that the current fiscal challenges facing Kenya are largely the result of poor planning and management. “We must rescue the OCOB from external influences that hinder its ability to facilitate sound fiscal management and planning for Kenya’s economy,” she stated. The MP raised concerns about the office’s limited capacity to report on key budget expenditures, including economic development loans, revenue forecasts, and grants.
“How can the OCOB effectively oversee fiscal responsibilities when it lacks transparency regarding housing levy collections and expenditures?” Wamuchomba questioned. She pointed out that the office remains uninformed about the extent of funds held in Treasury bills, exacerbating the problem of fiscal oversight.
Wamuchomba’s remarks prompted discussions on how entities granting government projects navigate these challenges, with some questioning whether grants should even fall within the scope of the OCOB’s oversight. “This is not just a matter of governance; it’s about ensuring that Kenya can work effectively,” she urged.
The committee agreed on the necessity for legislative changes to enhance the OCOB’s capabilities, enabling it to provide comprehensive reports and accountability on public funds. Without these reforms, the risk of deeper fiscal mismanagement looms, threatening the country’s economic stability.
As Kenya grapples with mounting fiscal pressures, Wamuchomba’s call to action underscores the importance of robust governance structures to safeguard the nation’s financial future.
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