Kimilili Member of Parliament, Didmus Barasa, is under scrutiny once again as concerns rise over the construction of unsafe classrooms within his constituency.
An audit report, broadcast by Citizen TV on Thursday, assessed nearly 12 schools, revealing alarming conditions in several of them.
Only two schools, Sango Baptist and Kamusinde R.C Primary, were found to have properly-built classrooms suitable for learning activities.
On the contrary, Kimilili R.C, Kimilili D.E.B, Kamusinde FYM, Daraja Mungu and Kamukuywa Primary were reported to have poorly-constructed classrooms, as were Bituyu, Nasianda, Sikhendu and Namawanga.
The situation was more dire in Lutonyi Primary and Chesamisi, where classrooms were declared entirely unsafe for learning activities.
The audit discovered that contractors involved in these projects used substandard materials and shortcuts in the construction process.
Just Checked on the progress of the 8 Classrooms Storied building at Kamusinde FYM Primary School. It's expected to be completed within two Months and ready for use.#KimililiPeopleFirst pic.twitter.com/ElVwAUjgu8
— Hon Didmus Barasa, MP Kimilili (@DidmusWaBarasa) March 24, 2020
Furthermore, it was revealed that many projects lacked the necessary approval documents from relevant authorities.
Some contractors opted to renovate existing structures instead of constructing new ones. Curiously, certain companies received building tenders worth Ksh12 million, while the actual work was valued at only Ksh4.6 million.
These construction projects are typically funded by the National Government-Constituency Development Fund (NG-CDF), with Members of Parliament serving as Patrons for their respective CDF initiatives.
Reports suggest that, amidst allegations of corruption, the management of Kimilili CDF programs is currently overseen by regional authorities.
Notably, Didmus Barasa faced previous controversy for an altercation with musician Steve Kay over a payment dispute. While Steve Kay was reported to be one of the contractors at that time, the recent audit report does not appear to implicate his work negatively.
The findings of the report have shocked residents in Kimilili, raising concerns about the safety of children attending schools with compromised infrastructure.
The spotlight is once again on Barasa as local authorities and citizens call for swift action to address the unsafe conditions in these educational facilities.