Senate summons former West Pokot governor over Sh46m car and mortgage loans
Former West Pokot Governor Prof John Lonyangapuo. Photo/Council of Governors
Former West Pokot Governor Prof John Lonyangapuo and his deputy Dr Nicholas Atudoyang have been summoned by the Senate to explain why they have failed to repay multimillion-shilling car and mortgage loans obtained during their tenure.
The Senate Committee on County Public Investments and Special Funds, chaired by Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi, said the two owe the county a combined Sh46 million, part of a ballooning loan default problem flagged by the Auditor-General.
According to the audit for the 2023/2024 financial year, 22 borrowers defaulted on car and mortgage loans amounting to Sh59.2 million, with eight former county officials accounting for Sh55.6 million of that total.
Of the high-profile defaulters, Prof Lonyangapuo owes Sh22.4 million, while Dr Atudonyang owes Sh23.5 million.
Appearing before the committee, current Governor Simon Kachapin said recovery efforts have stalled despite the county issuing demand letters and warning of legal action.
“We have made progress recovering from other defaulters, but the former governor and his deputy have refused to service their loans,” Governor Kachapin told senators.
“Even though we are taking legal action, we have little faith in the recovery.”
Senator Raphael Chimera urged the governor to trust the judicial process and pursue legal redress, saying, “Let the lawyers go to court. Have faith in your legal team.”
Committee chair Senator Osotsi said the Senate would not allow public funds to go unaccounted for, adding that the former county bosses must personally explain themselves.
“This committee resolves to summon the former governor to appear and explain why he cannot honour his obligations,” Senator Osotsi declared.
“He cannot sit with such an amount when the people of West Pokot are in dire need of basic services.”
The Senate committee is expected to set a date for Prof Lonyangapuo and Dr Atudonyang to appear and account for the loans before the House team.
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