The Senate has called for urgent action against governors and Members of County Assemblies (MCAs) accused of using public funds to promote their personal brands.
The move comes in response to a petition filed by a Nakuru-based activist, Laban Omusundi, who exposed a growing trend of county-funded projects and vehicles being branded with politicians’ names, photos, and campaign slogans.
His submission criticized the widespread use of politicians’ images and slogans on county vehicles and public infrastructure, branding it as “self-aggrandisement” that distorts the public’s understanding of who funds development projects.
“Historically, monarchs used portraits to assert divinity. But Kenya is a republic. Leaders are servants, not small gods,” Omusundi told the Senate. He argued that public signage should read “Courtesy of the Taxpayers of Kenya,” not individual politicians’ names.
He also called for changes to the County Governments Act, 2012, to legally ban personal branding on publicly funded projects. Omusundi added that all county vehicles should bear national flag colours and official registration plates to prevent private misuse, a common issue with unmarked government cars.
Despite reaching out to the Council of Governors and the Attorney General’s Office, Omusundi said he received no response, prompting his formal appeal to the Senate.
Committee: Practice is Illegal, Unethical, and Unconstitutional
After reviewing the petition, the Senate Committee backed Omusundi’s concerns and labeled the practice as both unethical and unconstitutional. In its report, the committee cited multiple violations of the law:
Chapter Six of the Constitution (2010) – which demands integrity, honesty, and selflessness from public officials.
Article 75 of the Constitution – which prohibits state officers from using public office for personal gain.
Public Officer Ethics Act (Cap 183) – which bars officials from abusing their positions for private benefit.
Leadership and Integrity Act (Cap 185C) – which outlines conduct expected from those in public service.
Public Service (Values and Principles) Act, 2015 – which stresses transparency, accountability, and efficient use of resources.
The Senate also invoked Sections 79 and 162 of the Public Finance Management Act (2012), which underscore the importance of transparency and prudent financial management in public office.
Tougher Oversight and Audits Ordered
In a strongly worded directive, the Senate ordered the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC), the Auditor-General, and the Controller of Budget to investigate and act against any leaders found guilty of political self-promotion using taxpayer money.
“Public officers, including governors and MCAs, must stop using public funds for self-promotion. They are servants of the people, not demigods,” said Wajir Senator Sheikh Mohamed, who chairs the Senate Committee on Devolution and Intergovernmental Relations.
To stop the misuse of public funds, the Senate ordered the EACC to issue formal advisories and report back within 30 days on measures taken to end personal branding on public assets.
Meanwhile, the Auditor-General and Controller of Budget were instructed to conduct special audits targeting county expenditures on branding, including logos, portraits, vehicle decals, and customized plaques. Officials found guilty of misusing funds for self-promotion risk disciplinary action or prosecution.
The Senate warned that public infrastructure must reflect the will and contributions of the taxpayers, not the ambitions of elected leaders.
New Guidelines for Government Vehicles
In a broader push to curb abuse of public resources, the committee also recommended changes to how county vehicles are branded and used. It proposed that all county-owned vehicles must:
- Display official government registration numbers in line with the Traffic Act (Registration Plates).
- Feature national flag colours to ensure easy public identification and discourage unauthorized personal use.
The goal is to increase transparency and restore public confidence in county governments.
Senate Pushes for Legal Reforms
The committee’s report concluded with a call to introduce legislation that explicitly bans individual names, slogans, and portraits on publicly funded projects. These legal reforms, the Senate hopes, will help anchor public service in accountability and prevent future misuse of county resources.
As Senator Sheikh put it: “This is about restoring dignity to public service. These projects belong to the people—not to politicians seeking praise.”
What’s Next?
The Senate’s recommendations are now in the hands of the EACC, Auditor-General, and Controller of Budget. With a 30-day deadline in place, all eyes are on these agencies to take concrete action and help root out the culture of self-glorification using public money.
