The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has launched an extensive investigation into Trans-Nzoia Governor George Natembeya, focusing on allegations that he embezzled Ksh1.4 billion in county funds. The core of the investigation centers on claims that Natembeya manipulated tender processes and illicitly received kickbacks through proxies connected to major infrastructure projects within the county.

On a Monday morning, EACC detectives conducted a raid on Natembeya’s residence in Milimani, Kitale, as part of their ongoing efforts to gather evidence. This operation also targeted the homes of four senior county officials, all aimed at uncovering evidence related to alleged irregular procurement practices and fictitious payments made during the 2022/2023 and 2024/2025 financial years. The EACC has confirmed the recovery of critical evidence, which they intend to use in the prosecution of those implicated in the alleged corruption.

Investigators are scrutinizing how Natembeya and other officials allegedly facilitated suspicious payments linked to three significant public projects. These include the rehabilitation and modernization of Kenyatta Stadium (Phase 1A), awarded to Parbat Siyan Construction Limited; the construction of the Trans-Nzoia County Headquarters, assigned to C.M. Construction Company Limited; and the construction of Tom Mboya Hospital, contracted to Session Blue Contractors Limited.

The EACC has identified several county officials as persons of interest in the investigation. These include Emanuel Masungo (Chief Officer for Finance), Dorothy Nyukuri (Chief Officer for Water), and Eliyah Liambula (Director of Procurement). Also under investigation is Desmond Shivachi, a contractor identified by the agency as one of Natembeya’s proxies. Beyond corruption and procurement fraud, the EACC is also exploring potential money laundering activities and unexplained wealth among the implicated officials, indicating a broader scheme to conceal illicit funds.

However, the high-stakes probe encountered resistance when angry residents gathered outside Natembeya’s home during the raid. The situation escalated as the crowd began pelting EACC vehicles with stones and deflating tires before eventually storming the compound, disrupting the operation. Natembeya, known as a critic of the President William Ruto government, was not present during the raid.

EACC CEO Abdi Mohamud condemned the violence, emphasizing that obstructing a Commission officer is a criminal offense. He urged the public to respect the law and allow the investigations to proceed without interference.

In related developments, Governor Natembeya was arrested over the alleged embezzlement of Sh1.4 billion in county funds. According to Natembeya’s lawyer, Ndegwa Njiri, the governor was arrested in Kitale and brought to EACC headquarters for questioning and statement recording. The commission stated its investigation covers allegations of procurement irregularities, abuse of office, bribery, and fraudulent acquisition of public funds related to the same three major county projects: Kenyatta Stadium, the Trans Nzoia County headquarters, and Tom Mboya Hospital.

Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka has claimed that the arrest was a fabricated plot to tarnish Natembeya’s reputation. Natembeya himself has been vocal on national issues and political developments, criticizing President William Ruto’s governance and other policy decisions.

Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka has warned against the suppression of dissenting views through unlawful arrests and intimidation. He, along with other leaders, has expressed concern over the use of state authority to silence critics.

Notably, Governor Natembeya is not the only county official to face arrest by the EACC recently. Kiambu Governor Kimani Wamatangi and Bomet Governor Hillary Barchok have also been arrested on similar allegations of fraudulent deals and embezzlement.