The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has launched a high-profile investigation into Bomet Governor Hon. Hillary Kipng’eno Barchok, eight senior county officials, and two contractors over allegations of conflict of interest and theft of public funds amounting to KES 1.45 billion.
The funds were reportedly fraudulently paid to suppliers and contractors who are also senior employees of the Bomet County Government, for works and services that were never delivered.
EACC, backed by court orders, conducted a major operation in Nairobi and Bomet Counties, targeting various premises linked to the suspects. The anti-corruption watchdog has secured crucial evidentiary material that will be used in finalizing the ongoing investigations.
Following the operation, Governor Barchok was escorted to EACC’s South Rift Regional Offices in Nakuru for further processing.
The allegations against the Bomet County leadership include:
- Conflict of interest: Payments were made to county officials who own companies supplying goods and services to the county.
- Fraudulent payments: Public funds were disbursed for projects that were never completed or even initiated.
- Collusion with contractors: Two private contractors are accused of working in tandem with county officials to defraud taxpayers.
EACC Secretary and CEO, Abdi A. Mohamud, MBS, reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to fighting corruption, stating:
“The Commission remains firmly focused on its mandate and will continue to enforce the law against all persons engaging in theft of public funds.”
Next Steps: What Happens Now?
- Further investigations: EACC will analyze the seized evidence to build a solid case.
- Possible prosecution: If sufficient evidence is found, the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) will likely file charges against the suspects.
- Asset recovery: EACC may move to freeze or recover the illegally acquired wealth.
This latest scandal adds to growing concerns over corruption in county governments, where billions of taxpayer funds are lost through fraudulent schemes. The case follows recent high-profile graft cases involving other county officials.
The arrest and investigation of Governor Barchok and his team have sparked national debate over governance, transparency, and accountability in devolved units. Kenyans are calling for:
- Faster prosecution of corrupt officials.
- Stronger financial oversight at the county level.
- Harsher penalties for individuals found guilty of plundering public funds.
This case will serve as a litmus test for Kenya’s commitment to fighting corruption, especially at the county level, where public funds are frequently mismanaged. The outcome of the investigation will be closely watched, with hopes that justice will be served.
