The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has arrested Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya in connection with the alleged embezzlement of county funds amounting to Ksh.1.4 billion.
Governor Natembeya was taken to the EACC headquarters in Nairobi on Monday morning, where he was expected to record a statement, according to his lawyer, Ndegwa Njiru. However, Njiru revealed that his legal team was denied access to their client.
"They have locked in our client, but we are not able to access him or give him any legal counsel on the process that is currently being undertaken," Njiru stated.
The EACC confirmed that the arrest stems from ongoing investigations into alleged procurement irregularities, abuse of office, and bribery. The suspected financial misconduct reportedly occurred during the 2022/2023 to 2024/2025 Financial Years.
The Commission cited three major county projects at the center of the probe: the rehabilitation and modernisation of Kenyatta Stadium (Phase 1A), the construction of the county headquarters, and the building of Tom Mboya Hospital.
"The Governor is alleged to have influenced award of tenders and received kickbacks from contractors through proxies," the EACC stated.
EACC officers also conducted search operations at several locations, including the governor’s residence in Kitale. This action triggered criticism from DAP-K party leader Eugene Wamalwa.
"We will not allow harassment of the opposition and the weaponizing of our justice system," Wamalwa said. He further claimed that other opposition figures, including Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua and Mumias East MP Peter Salasya, are facing similar treatment.
Outside the EACC offices, Governor Natembeya’s supporters gathered in large numbers, calling for his immediate release.
