Jacinta Masila: Accused of Interfering with Public Funds and Leaking Secrets

Allegations have emerged against Ms. Jacinta Masila, the Director of Corporate Services at the Office of the Controller of Budget, raising significant concerns regarding the management of public funds in Kenya.

Claims circulating online, particularly from Cyprian Nyakundi on X, suggest that Ms. Masila has interfered with the allocation of bursary funds and disclosed confidential financial information to politicians associated with a former Deputy President. While these allegations remain unverified, they have garnered considerable public scrutiny due to the sensitive nature of her position.

Ms. Masila, who previously served as the Chief Officer for Finance in Machakos County, is now facing questions about decisions that may have obstructed counties from accessing essential bursary funds, which are vital for supporting students from low-income backgrounds. The implications of denying access to these funds could severely impact the educational opportunities for many children in impoverished areas.

Furthermore, the accusation of leaking confidential government spending information to political figures raises serious ethical concerns, as such actions undermine the integrity expected from someone in her role. The Office of the Controller of Budget is crucial in ensuring that both national and county governments utilize public funds appropriately and legally.

Any misuse of power or sharing of sensitive information for political gain not only erodes public trust but also jeopardizes the effectiveness of the financial oversight system.

Currently, there has been no official comment from Ms. Masila or the Office of the Controller of Budget (OCoB), which is intensifying public scrutiny at a time when citizens are seeking clarity. Online reactions have been a blend of anger, frustration, and disbelief, with many asserting that bursary programs have long been mismanaged, while others view this as indicative of broader issues within Kenya’s financial system.

Cyprian, Is Nyakundi on X: “Controller of Budget Official Under Fire Over Alleged Interference and Leaks Ms. Jacinta Macila, the Director of Corporate Services at the Office of the Controller of Budget (OCoB), is under fire following a wave of allegations that question her conduct and impartiality in https://t.co/CpzaBXpZo3” / X

Concurrent media reports have underscored escalating tensions between county governors and the Controller of Budget regarding the delays in fund disbursement, with some governors reportedly threatening to dismiss the Controller due to dissatisfaction with the sluggish release of county resources.

Despite Ms. Masila’s impressive qualifications, including over 25 years of experience and advanced degrees in finance and public management, her association with serious allegations raises significant concerns about the vetting processes and accountability of high-ranking public officials, particularly given her involvement in various professional committees focused on audits and public finance.