EACC Probes 16 Governors Over Sh1.6 Billion County Funds Scandal

The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) is currently investigating the financial activities of 16 governors—both sitting and former—amid claims of widespread misuse of public funds. 

The investigations involve suspected misappropriation of approximately Sh1.6 billion, raising serious concerns about accountability and transparency in county administrations. The widening scope of the EACC’s inquiries has drawn attention to several high-profile political figures. Among those under investigation are current governors Kimani Wamatangi (Kiambu), Hillary Barchok (Bomet), and Mohamud Ali (Marsabit), along with former Bungoma governor Wycliffe Wangamati.

The allegations range from conflict of interest and embezzlement to money laundering. In Kiambu, Governor Wamatangi is accused of awarding contracts worth Sh1.27 billion to companies reportedly linked to his family during his tenure as senator. The commission is examining whether proper procurement procedures were followed and whether there was any undue influence in the awarding of tenders. Wamatangi has dismissed the claims, describing the investigation as politically motivated.

Governor Barchok of Bomet is alleged to have channelled Sh152 million through firms associated with his close allies. Some of the funds are believed to have been returned as kickbacks to the governor and his relatives. Barchok has responded by seeking a court order to prevent any possible arrest or prosecution, a move that illustrates the legal challenges facing anti-corruption efforts.

Former Bungoma governor Wangamati is also under investigation for the alleged loss of Sh70 million through contracts awarded to companies tied to his family and associates. According to the EACC, many of these companies were either recently registered or lacked the qualifications to carry out the roadworks for which they were paid between 2017 and 2021.

In Marsabit, Governor Mohamud Ali and his spouses are linked to a Sh728 million procurement scandal. The EACC claims that from 2017 to 2024, companies connected to the governor and his associates were awarded 104 tenders, raising suspicions of favouritism and abuse of office.