By Vincent Mabatuk

A provincial administrator is on the spot for allegedly colluding with his juniors to steal relief food meant for IDPs in Kuresoi District. According to IDPs living in Kamara Division, 94 bags of maize meant for distribution to them early this month never reached their camps, although the maize was released by the National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) depot at Olenguruone.

Representatives of the more than 200 families intercepted a private lorry ferrying the cargo to Molo town. During the commotion that ensued, the IDPs only retrieved a form containing details of the consignment's movement. It also indicated the quantity released by NCPB. The form, which is in our custody, shows that the district procurement officer Evans Kimori received the maize on September 10, 2011.

Allegations

Total Mosque Camp chairman Peter Kilika said they had received the last food rations on September 3 2011 and were not aware of any other supply as alleged by the DC. However, the DC Cyrus Gatobu, said the matter was under investigation. "It is true I directed the release of relief food from Olenguruone NCPB depot but I am not aware of the allegations you are telling now," he said. The food was expected to be delivered to the Kamara Division DO's office.

But furious IDPs claimed there was a conspiracy between the Provincial Administration and the NCPB to divert the food for personal gain. Some of the residents, who wished not to be named for security reasons, said theft of relief food in the area had been going on for a long period of time.

Implicated

There unease at the camp as the IDPs claimed to have received threats warning them against pressing for investigations into the issue. They asked the Government to fire officials implicated in stealing relief food.

Speaking at The Standard offices in Nakuru, IDP leaders condemned the theft of relief food. "It is sad to see people starving when government officials are busy selling relief food. We want those implicated punished," said William Thuku.