MACHAKOS, Kenya — Machakos Governor Wavinya Ndeti has dismissed allegations by comedian and businessman Sammy Kioko that the county owes him money for goods supplied, asserting that official records do not recognise him as a registered supplier.
In a statement issued on April 1, 2026, Governor Ndeti addressed “recent statements and events” involving Kioko, including concerns over alleged non-payment.
“Our records indicate that Mr Sammy Kioko is not a registered supplier of the County Government of Machakos,” she said.
The governor clarified that the entity contracted to supply Inspectorate uniforms was Movata Designs, adding that any individual acting on behalf of the company must present proper legal authorisation.
“For any individual to lawfully act on behalf of the company, proper legal authorisation must be presented, including a valid Power of Attorney, formal appointment by the company, or representation through a qualified advocate,” she explained.
Her statement followed an incident on March 31, 2026, in Machakos Town, where Kioko was reportedly assaulted by county askaris during a protest over the disputed claim. He was later admitted to Nairobi West Hospital after receiving initial treatment at Athi River Level 4 Hospital and Kang’undo Level 4 Hospital.
Governor Ndeti emphasised that the county does not condone violence and called for restraint, urging all parties to allow lawful and orderly processes to prevail.
Regarding the disputed supply, the governor acknowledged that deliveries were made by Movata Designs but said they were incomplete and could not be verified within the financial year.
“Partial delivery occurred towards the close of the financial year 2023/2024 and therefore inspection and acceptance of the partial delivery could not be conducted,” she said.
As a result, the payment was classified as a pending bill in accordance with Public Finance Management procedures.
Governor Ndeti also provided an overview of the county’s pending bills, noting that out of Sh3.8 billion in inherited claims, Sh2.1 billion were eligible, while Sh1.68 billion were ineligible due to issues such as unverified legal fees and incomplete documentation.
The county has already settled Sh642 million from the eligible amount, leaving a balance of Sh1.48 billion, which will be addressed systematically through the 1st Supplementary Budget for the 2025/2026 financial year and subsequent budgets, she said.
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She highlighted that the administration has cleared Sh1.39 billion in pending bills in the current financial year alone, describing it as “a clear demonstration of our commitment to restoring fiscal discipline and honouring obligations.”
The governor assured verified suppliers that all legitimate claims will be paid but emphasised compliance with legal and financial frameworks.
“I wish to assure all suppliers and the public that the County Government remains fully committed to settling all verified and legitimate claims,” she said.
At the same time, she cautioned against protests as a means of demanding payment.
“Public demonstrations and media campaigns, while understandable, cannot override lawful procedures nor accelerate payments beyond what is provided for within the law,” Ndeti added.
She also cited delays in disbursements from the National Exchequer as a factor affecting payments, noting that this challenge is not unique to Machakos County.
