Ongeri vows to stay put over stolen cash

Education minister Sam Ongeri has accused unnamed politicians of harbouring malice in linking him to corruption and vowed not to step aside.

Prof Ongeri said he was clean over the alleged theft of Sh4.2 billion meant for the Free Primary Education programme, arguing that he was the one who blew the whistle over the missing funds.

“I don’t condone or practise corruption and, as a Christian, it would be wrong if I tell a lie,” the minister said and vowed not to succumb to pressure to resign.

“I’m not guilty and I will not take political responsibility as demanded by some people. I want the public to know that it is me who asked for an extended audit in the ministry on February 25, 2010.”

The minister was speaking at Naisambu Seventh Day Adventist Church in Saboti constituency where he helped to raise Sh1.2 million for the completion of the church.

According to the Public Accounts Committee, the theft started in 2004, a year after the FPE programme was introduced.

Prof George Saitoti was the minister for Education until 2008 while Prof Karega Mutahi was the PS until last year.

Prof Ongeri, however, wants school administrators and other education officials held responsible for any theft of funds released during his tenure, claiming he only dealt with paper work.