The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Renson Igonga, has directed that Bomet Governor Hillary Kipng’eno Barchok and former Bungoma Governor Wycliffe Wangamati face charges over corruption-related offences.
In a statement issued on Thursday, August 28, the DPP confirmed that the two leaders, together with several associates, will be prosecuted following investigations by the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC).
According to the inquiry file forwarded to the DPP, Governor Barchok allegedly received Ksh2.75 million from companies that were trading with the Bomet County Government between the financial years 2019/2020 and 2024/2025.
The money is suspected to be linked to irregular contracts. The DPP further noted that the Governor should appear in court alongside Evans Kipkoech Korir, the Director of Chemasus Construction Limited.
Both men are expected to face charges of conflict of interest, money laundering, acquisition of proceeds of crime, and unlawful acquisition of public property.
Former Bungoma Governor Wycliffe Wangamati was also named in the investigations. He is accused, together with county officials, of embezzling Ksh70.2 million through private companies.
The DPP explained that Wangamati and his co-accused will be charged with conflict of interest, acquiring proceeds of crime, and failing to follow procurement laws.
“The evidence provided is sufficient to sustain the charges, and we shall proceed in line with the law,” the statement from the Office of the DPP read.
This decision comes amid growing calls from the public for tougher action against corruption in counties.
Both current and former governors have increasingly been placed under scrutiny over how county funds are managed, with many facing questions about irregular tenders and misuse of resources meant for development.RENSON MULELE INGONGA SWORN IN AS KENYA’S NEW DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC PROSECUTIONS!! – YouTube
Analysts say the latest move by the DPP signals a stronger push by the government to hold senior officials accountable.
If convicted, the two governors could face heavy fines, loss of office, or even jail terms under the Anti-Corruption and Economic Crimes Act.
By Kenyans