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The Ethics and Anti Corruption Commission (EACC) Monday launched investigations into alleged procurement irregularities, abuse of office, bribery, and fraudulent acquisition of public funds totaling Ksh 1.4 Billion.
According to EACC the alleged irregularities and fraudulent payments which span from 2022/2023 to 2024/2025 financial years center around three projects that include: Rehabilitation and Modernisation of Kenyatta Stadium (Phase 1A), construction of the Trans Nzoia County Headquarters Offices and construction of Tom Mboya Hospital.
In a statement on Monday, the Anti graft commission confirmed that it is currently conducting a search operation, sanctioned by court orders, targeting offices and residences of various persons of interest, including the Trans Nzoia County Governor George Natembeya.
“As part of the ongoing investigations, the Commission is today conducting a search operation, pursuant to court orders, targeting offices and residences of various persons of interest, including the Trans Nzoia County Governor, George Natembeya.” The statement read.
Governor Natembeya is alleged to have influenced award of tenders and received kickbacks from contractors through proxies.
Others mentioned by the Commission as persons of interest include: Emanuel Masungo the Chief Officer Finance, Dorothy Nyukuri, Chief Officer for Water, Eliyah Liambula the Director of Procurement and Desmond Shivachi a contractor also alleged to be the governor’s proxy.
“In addition the commission is probing allegations if money laundering and accumulation of unexplained wealth by senior county officials suspected to be part of a broader scheme to conceal the proceeds of crime.” The statement revealed.
EACC says that the early morning search operation has resulted in the recovery of critical evidentiary material to support ongoing investigations.
The Commission has however decried acts of violence that marred the operation, revealing that its vehicles were vandalized outside Governor Natembeya’s residence in Kitale by a group of rowdy youths. “This act of hooliganism is unacceptable and a direct affront to the rule of law,” the Commission said.
EACC condemned the violence warning that obstructing its officers during lawful investigations is a criminal offence punishable by law. It further affirmed its status as an independent constitutional body and reiterated its commitment to carrying out its mandate with professionalism and integrity.
