Secret funds shifting on a covert digital platform via e-Citizen, totaling billions
The e-Citizen services platform, a digital service platform used by Kenyans for various government transactions, has come under intense scrutiny following a damning report by the Auditor General. The report, presented to the National Assembly Public Accounts Committee, reveals that an alarming Sh9.4 billion was irregularly funnelled from the platform[1].
The report details how funds were diverted and paid out to 'alien' companies and private entities, raising questions about the transparency and accountability of the platform's operations. The irregularities involve payments to companies such as Webmasters Kenya Limited, Pesaflow Limited, and Olive Tree Media Limited[2].
In 2023, the Information Communication and Technology Authority (ICT Authority) contracted a consortium comprising these companies for the e-Citizen platform’s support and maintenance. The audit traced the flow of funds to these private companies, notably Webmasters Africa Ltd (registered in 2010), owned by Lexco Company Ltd and several individual shareholders and directors[2].
These companies received unauthorized diversions of revenue totaling approximately Sh6.3 billion, paid out irregularly[2]. The public lost billions due to illicit charges and fraudulent activities linked to these companies and private entities that were "alien" to proper government procurement and contracting procedures[2].
The National Assembly Public Accounts Committee is currently reviewing the report, highlighting a systemic failure in oversight and controls. The e-Citizen services platform's reputation has suffered a severe blow due to these shocking revelations.
It is important to note that the National Treasury has not been explicitly mentioned in the available sources as involved in this particular diversion of funds. However, the scandal also involves illegal convenience fees charged to citizens, compounding the financial damage.
The National Assembly Public Accounts Committee will continue to investigate the matter, seeking to uncover the full extent of the financial irregularities and ensure accountability for those responsible. The public will be eagerly awaiting the committee's findings and recommendations for restoring trust and confidence in the e-Citizen services platform.
[1] The Star. (2025, March 1). Sh9.4 billion lost in e-Citizen platform scandal. Retrieved from https://www.the-star.co.ke/news/2025/03/01-sh9-4-billion-lost-in-e-citizen-platform-scandal_c1677546
[2] The Standard. (2025, March 1). e-Citizen platform: Sh9.4 billion lost in irregular payments. Retrieved from https://www.standardmedia.co.ke/business/article/2001382663/e-citizen-platform-sh9-4-billion-lost-in-irregular-payments
- The e-Citizen services platform scandal, involving irregular payments totaling Sh9.4 billion, raises questions about the integrity of politics, business, and industry in Kenya, as well as general news of governance and finance.
- The Auditor General's report on the e-Citizen platform has revealed that payments were made to private entities such as Webmasters Kenya Limited, Pesaflow Limited, Olive Tree Media Limited, and Webmasters Africa Ltd, which raises concerns about the transparency and accountability of business transactions within the political sphere.
- The investigation into the e-Citizen services platform's financial irregularities by the National Assembly Public Accounts Committee is crucial for restoring trust and confidence in politics, business, and the overall news industry, as well as upholding the principles of proper finance and procurement practices within the government and industry.
