MP raises alarm over school debts left behind by retiring headteachers

Gilgil Member of Parliament Martha Wangari has raised concerns over financial management lapses in public schools, warning that incoming headteachers are being saddled with millions of shillings in unrecorded debts left behind by their retiring predecessors.

Speaking on the floor of the National Assembly, Ms Wangari urged the Ministry of Education and the Office of the Auditor-General to enforce mandatory, comprehensive financial audits for school heads before they retire from public service.

The lawmaker cited a school in Gilgil where she said an administrator had retired, leaving behind an unverified debt burden that has created operational challenges for the school's new management and the local community.

“We cannot allow a culture where headteachers leave public institutions crippled with multi-million shilling debts,” Ms Wangari said. “There must be a clear policy ensuring that before any principal vacates office upon retirement, a thorough audit is conducted to clear their account books.”

Timing of audits

The legislator pointed out that current auditing timelines contribute significantly to the problem.

She noted that government audits often coincide with national examination periods, when school administrators are focused on logistical and administrative duties.

According to Ms Wangari, conducting financial inspections during non-examination periods would ensure comprehensive scrutiny without disrupting national assessments.

“Audits should be carried out routine-wise during normal school terms outside examination windows,” she added. “This will allow auditors to properly inspect procurement records, supplier invoices, and institutional ledgers without putting pressure on school management during exams.”

Calls for policy action

The MP's demands come amid growing concerns over institutional pending bills in primary and secondary schools across the country.

Many institutions face electricity disconnections and litigation by suppliers over unpaid services incurred under previous administrations.

Ms Wangari asked the relevant authorities to fast-track strict exit-clearance mechanisms for all public school heads to prevent the loss of public funds and safeguard educational resources.