EACC Launches Probe into Ksh.373M Graft in Bomet County

The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has initiated a thorough investigation into allegations of theft of public funds, conflict of interest, and procurement fraud amounting to Ksh.373 million in Bomet County. This substantial sum is tied to the procurement of heavy road construction equipment and trucks, raising serious concerns about the integrity of the county’s financial management and procurement processes.

The probe focuses on county officials and private entities suspected of collaborating to execute fraudulent transactions. The EACC’s action follows mounting pressure for accountability and transparency in the management of public resources. In a letter dated July 30, EACC South Rift Regional Manager Ignatius Wekesa formally requested the Bomet County Secretary to provide critical financial and procurement documents. These documents are crucial for the commission to understand the extent and nature of the alleged malpractices.

“Kindly provide us with the following original documents: approved budget for FY 2022/2023 & 2023/2024; approved procurement plan for FY 2022/2023 and 2023/2024; procurement requisition; approved memo-seeking approval advertisement,” Wekesa stated in the letter. The EACC also demanded an advertisement notice, standard tender document, original tender documents submitted by bidders, appointment letters for the tender opening or evaluation committee, and the tender opening register, among other documents.

The gravity of the situation is underscored by the specific documents requested, which are essential for tracing the flow of funds and identifying any discrepancies or irregularities in the procurement process. By examining these documents, the EACC aims to piece together the sequence of events that led to the alleged misappropriation of funds.

“Our officers M. Kemei, M. Njiru, and A. Abdi, or any other authorized Commission officer, will be available to collect the documents,” the letter further added. This directive indicates the urgency and importance of the investigation, as the EACC mobilizes its resources to uncover the truth behind the alleged graft.

EACC Spokesperson Eric Ngumbi emphasized that individuals found culpable would face prosecution, and efforts would be made to recover any public funds lost in the scandal. “The commission is committed to ensuring that public resources are used for the intended purposes and that those who misuse them are held accountable,” Ngumbi stated. This commitment reflects the EACC’s broader mandate to combat corruption and promote ethical conduct in public service.

The Bomet County case is one of several high-profile investigations by the EACC, highlighting the commission’s ongoing efforts to tackle corruption at various levels of government. The outcome of this investigation could set a precedent for how similar cases are handled in the future, reinforcing the message that corruption will not be tolerated.

Public reaction to the probe has been mixed, with some residents expressing hope that the investigation will lead to greater transparency and accountability in county operations. Others remain skeptical, citing past instances where corruption cases were not thoroughly prosecuted. Nevertheless, the EACC’s proactive approach in this case offers a glimmer of hope for those advocating for clean governance.

As the investigation unfolds, the spotlight will remain on Bomet County officials and private entities implicated in the scandal. The findings of the EACC will be keenly awaited, not only by the residents of Bomet County but also by a nation striving for greater integrity in the management of public resources.