EACC summons governors Barchok and Wangamati over graft allegations

By Newsflash Repoter

The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has summoned Bomet Governor Hillary Kipng’eno Barchok and former Bungoma Governor Wycliffe Wangamati to face corruption charges. The move comes after the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) approved their prosecution alongside county officials, relatives, and company directors allegedly linked to fraudulent county tenders.

EACC said in a statement that all suspects must present themselves at the Integrity Centre in Nairobi on Monday, September 1, 2025, at 8 a.m. for processing ahead of arraignment in court.

Bomet Governor Accused of Conflict of Interest

Governor Barchok faces charges of conflict of interest in procurement dealings within Bomet County. He will be charged alongside Evans Kipkoech Korir, a director of Chemasus Construction Limited. According to ODPP, the two are accused of colluding to unlawfully acquire property through county contracts worth Ksh.2.75 million.

EACC Chief Executive Officer Abdi Mohamud confirmed the investigations targeted procurement violations and emphasized the commission’s resolve to hold governors accountable. “These prosecutions form part of our wider mandate to fight graft in county governments,” he stated.

Former Bungoma Governor in Multi-Million Shilling Case

In Bungoma, former Governor Wycliffe Wangamati faces accusations of embezzling more than Ksh.70 million during his tenure. Investigators allege that relatives and associates of the ex-governor benefited from inflated tenders awarded to construction and supply companies linked to the Wangamati family.

More than ten individuals are implicated in the case, including directors and associates of multiple firms such as Skyman Freighters, Nabwala Construction Ltd, Fastec Suppliers, Kelco Builders, Mundesi Contractors, Nabweso Builders, and Valeria Construction Ltd.

Among those named are Michael Simiyu Wangamati, Nicholas Wangamati, and Edward Barasa Wangamati, alongside several associates including Edward Maaya Makhanu, Sandra Soita Nasambu, and Wafula Wakoli Chesititi. Other directors linked to the scandal include Bramwel Mukewe Wafula, Juma Swaleh Juma, Jimmy Wekesa Barasa, Christopher Masika Makokha, and Joseph Wanyonyi Khaemba.

ODPP Approves Charges, Expands Probe to Other Counties

Director of Public Prosecutions Renson Ingonga confirmed that his office had approved corruption charges against both governors and their associates. In addition, the ODPP ordered further investigations into alleged procurement fraud in Kiambu and Marsabit counties, where officials are accused of siphoning hundreds of millions through illegal tenders.

According to the ODPP, several governors, county officials, and contractors face accusations of corruption, violation of procurement laws, and misappropriation of public property. “Our mandate is clear—to ensure accountability and bring to justice those who misuse public resources,” Ingonga said.

Wider Crackdown on County-Level Corruption

The summons mark the latest chapter in Kenya’s continuing battle against graft at county level. Investigators say the cases highlight entrenched networks where governors, relatives, and politically connected businesspeople allegedly manipulate procurement systems for personal gain.

EACC noted that both high-profile and lower-ranking officials would face justice. “This is not just about governors—it is about everyone involved in looting public coffers,” the commission said.

What Comes Next

Governor Barchok, former Governor Wangamati, and their associates are expected to appear in court following their questioning at the Integrity Centre. If convicted, they face fines, loss of office, and potential jail terms.

The investigations in Kiambu and Marsabit counties are ongoing, with EACC warning of more prosecutions in the coming months. For now, the spotlight remains firmly on Bomet and Bungoma, as Kenyans watch whether the fight against corruption will finally reach some of the most powerful figures in county politics.