The Director of Public Prosecutions has ordered the prosecution of Bomet Governor Hillary Barchok and former Bungoma Governor Wycliffe Wangamati on corruption-related charges.
The directive follows recommendations from the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) on allegations of conflict of interest and embezzlement of public funds. "Upon thorough review, I have directed that Hillary Kipngeno Barchok be charged as follows: Conflict of Interest contrary to section 42(3) as read with section 48 of The Anti-Corruption and Economic Crimes Act 2003, and unlawful acquisition of public property," read a statement by DPP Renson Ingonga. Governor Barchok is to be prosecuted alongside Evans Kipkoech, the Director of Chemasus Construction, who is accused of acquisition of proceeds of crime.
Wangamati has been accused of embezzlement of funds amounting to Sh70million through private companies. "I have directed that the following individuals be charged as follows: Wycliffe Wangamati for conflict of interest, Michael Wangamati, Nicholas Wangamati, Edward Wangamati and Nabwala Construction Limited for acquisition of proceeds of crime," added the DPP.
Marsabit Governor Mohamed Mohamud Ali is also trapped in the fraud net, and will be prosecuted for allegedly colluding with other companies to win a tender worth Sh728 million.
