Embattled former Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC) Managing Director Ben Chumo has declared his wealth while appearing before the National Assembly's Finance Committee on Monday.
Speaking when he was being vetted by for the position of Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC) chair, Chumo, who is at the centre of a multi-million scandal at Kenya Power, said he is worth about Sh212 million and was living comfortably.
"My estimated net worth stands at about Sh212 million. I can't say I am a rich man, in relative terms of course. I can support my family," he told the Finance and Trade House committee.
The former KPLC boss was recently arrested and arraigned in court together with other top managers over procurement of substandard transformers worth Sh450 million but they all denied the charges and released on bond.
Chumo asked MPs to assume him innocent until proven guilty and added that the ongoing cases should not form the basis of being rejected to take over the seat that was left vacant after the retirement of former SRC boss Sarah Serem.
"I could not have waited for 32 years to mess up. I think someone is looking to deny me this opportunity, I really deserve it. I don't think this challenge should deny me this opportunity," he said.
"My contribution towards vision 2030 is already being felt, however, I still want to make more contribution in ensuring the success of the President’s big 4 agenda," Chumo added.
He was nominated by President Uhuru Kenyatta on July 27 for the SRC job weeks before he was charged with the criminal case.