Masila Calls for Bold Citizen Oversight as TISA Unveils New Anti-Corruption Tool
Makueni County CECM for Devolution, Public Participation, County Administration and Special Programs, Nicholas Masila Nzioka, has called for stronger citizen involvement in public procurement, saying it is the surest path to trust, fairness and better service delivery.
Masila said procurement only works when citizens take part in monitoring, evaluation and decision-making. He warned that when public participation is ignored, it results in inefficiency, corruption and frustration in communities.
He noted that citizens understand their needs best. Their feedback helps shape procurement priorities and ensures value for money. He added that public scrutiny reduces fraud and favoritism while giving marginalized groups a stronger voice in development. He said citizen oversight also strengthens democratic norms by turning procurement into a tool of accountability rather than simple transactions.
Masila outlined practical steps that governments can use to improve oversight. They include open disclosure of procurement plans, simplified budgets, digital platforms for real-time feedback, participatory planning, social audits and community-driven resource management.
He also highlighted common challenges that block oversight. Many citizens lack technical knowledge, and others face a digital divide. He said civic education, simplified data and hybrid engagement channels can bridge these gaps. He urged county and national institutions to embed oversight in law to overcome resistance.
Masila said citizen oversight is not optional because it builds trust and dignity in public service. He called for governments and communities to commit to transparent and people-centered procurement.
He also spoke as a champion for gender rights and the rights of persons with disabilities. He said his experience in three government departments showed him the need to protect marginalized groups. During his tenure in the Department of Gender, Children, Youth, Sports and Social Services, he worked to increase job opportunities for women, youth and persons with disabilities. He said the results will be shared at a later stage.
Masila spoke during the launch of Citizen Watch, a new citizen-driven tool by the Institute for Social Accountability (TISA). The platform aims to help Kenyans monitor public contracts, strengthen transparency, and prevent corruption in the procurement process.
Mr Masila is the man whom we can trust for every step to slaughter corruption.
He got a standing track record.
An ambassador
Very true