A new executive vehicle bought for Kisumu Governor Anyang' Nyong'o was the centre of discussion on Thursday when Finance and Economic Planning CeC nominee George Omondi faced the Kisumu Assembly for questioning.
Omondi is among the 14 chief officers who were recently nominated to lead eight departments in Kisumu, as the county boss attempts to bring in his own officials and push out those left by his predecessor Jackton Ranguma.
Omondi found himself in a tough situation when he was questioned over the process that was used to acquire the Sh19 million Toyota Land Cruiser, which the Members of County Assembly (MCAs) claimed was second hand.
Kondele MCA Joachim Oketch wondered why Omondi, who is privy to the processes that preceded the buying of the vehicle, allowed the county to spend so much money on a second-hand vehicle, which should go for less.
"You were a key member in the county government. You were the acting county secretary and economic adviser to the governor. What did you advise on this V8?" posed the MCA.
The vetting session was held at the Aga Khan Hall.
Omondi argued that the price of the vehicle is being assessed, adding that only the right amount will be paid for the fuel guzzler.
"I promise to institute investigations and I can assure members that I will not pay for what is not deemed a necessary cost by the government valuers," he responded.
The ward reps also sought to know why the county was unable to buy seven ambulances even after Sh65 million was allocated for that purpose.
While defending the vehicle purchase, County Director of Communications Alloyce Ager argued that the governor has been struggling with transport since he has only one car.
He said that the vehicle, which is also old, was bought years back, and he has been having to wait for long periods when it is taken to the garage for maintenance.