The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) arrested Japheth Ouko Mayore Isaboke, the Principal Prosecution Counsel in charge of the Kilgoris Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), on Sunday, 16th February 2025. Isaboke, a senior official in the judiciary, is accused of soliciting a bribe from a businessman in exchange for expediting a court case.
According to reports, the prosecutor initially demanded Ksh 50,000 from the businessman. However, after negotiations, the amount was reduced to Ksh 40,000. Despite the reduction, the businessman refused to comply and instead decided to report the matter to the EACC. The businessman’s decision to come forward played a crucial role in exposing the alleged corruption within the legal system.
Following the complaint, the EACC launched an investigation and carried out an operation that ultimately led to Isaboke’s arrest while accepting Ksh 20,000, which was part of the agreed bribe. The operation was part of the EACC’s ongoing efforts to address bribery and corruption within Kenya’s public institutions.
Isaboke was initially detained at Kisii Police Station and later released on a Ksh 30,000 cash bail. This release is pending the completion of investigations into the matter. The arrest has raised concerns over corruption within the public sector, particularly in institutions that are expected to uphold justice and fairness.
The EACC, in a statement, reiterated its commitment to fighting corruption and promoting integrity across all government institutions. The Commission emphasized the importance of citizens actively reporting any suspicious activities to help strengthen accountability in the public service.
This incident serves as a reminder of the ongoing fight against corruption in Kenya, where government institutions, including law enforcement and legal bodies, must maintain high standards of ethical conduct. The EACC’s efforts to tackle bribery and misconduct highlight the importance of transparency in the judicial process, ensuring that public officials serve with integrity and without compromising the law.
As investigations continue, the case will likely have broader implications for the ODPP and other public offices, with citizens closely monitoring the outcome. This case also reaffirms the need for vigilance and accountability, reinforcing the public’s role in reporting corruption to safeguard Kenya’s governance standards.
