Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya Arrested Over Ksh.1.4 Billion Corruption Scandal
In a dramatic turn of events, the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has arrested Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya in connection with a high-profile investigation into the alleged embezzlement of Ksh.1.4 billion in public funds.
The arrest, which took place early Monday morning, is linked to a series of ongoing probes into fraudulent procurement deals, abuse of office, and bribery involving senior county officials. Governor Natembeya was apprehended shortly after EACC detectives raided his official residence in Kitale, along with other premises linked to individuals under investigation.
🔍 Focus of the Investigation
The allegations cover the 2022/2023 to 2024/2025 financial years, with the spotlight on three multi-million-shilling county projects:
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Kenyatta Stadium Rehabilitation (Phase 1A) – awarded to Parbat Siyan Construction Limited.
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Construction of County Headquarters Offices – awarded to C.M. Construction Company Limited.
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Tom Mboya Hospital Project – awarded to Session Blue Contractors Limited.
According to EACC sources, these projects were marred by irregular tendering processes and fictitious payments, with claims that the governor and his allies received kickbacks through proxies.
⚠️ Other Persons of Interest
EACC has also named four other key suspects:
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Emanuel Masungo – Chief Officer, Finance
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Dorothy Nyukuri – Chief Officer, Water
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Eliyah Liambula – Director, Procurement
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Desmond Shivachi – Contractor and alleged proxy for the governor
🗣️ Political Fallout
The arrest has ignited a heated political debate, especially within the opposition. DAP-K party leader Eugene Wamalwa has condemned the move, labeling it “a politically motivated attack on opposition leadership.” He drew parallels with recent crackdowns on Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and Mumias East MP Peter Salasya, suggesting an emerging trend of targeted arrests.
✅ What Next?
The Governor is expected to be arraigned in court pending further investigations. Meanwhile, EACC says this is part of a broader crackdown on corruption and misuse of public office in Kenya’s devolved units.
Stay tuned to Kelvin Kibet Media for real-time updates and in-depth analysis.
