Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya's arraignment in court over graft allegations has sparked a standoff in Nairobi between the police and his supporters. The supporters gathered outside the Milimani Law Courts, disrupting traffic as Natembeya appeared before the Anti-Graft Court. The charges stem from alleged fraud linked to the Trans Nzoia County government.

On Monday, protestors caused mayhem in Kitale's Milimani estate, stoning vehicles belonging to police agencies. The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) initiated an investigation into the incident, condemning the attack as an attempt to undermine the rule of law. Natembeya, a vocal critic of the government, faces four graft charges, including conflict of interest and unlawful acquisition of public funds. He pleaded not guilty to allegedly receiving Ksh4.2 million linked to county contracts. His lawyers raised concerns about changes in the charge sheet, initially indicating Ksh4.1 billion in graft, later revised to Ksh1.1 million and Ksh2.1 million in kickbacks allegations.

The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) opposed Natembeya's release on bail, citing concerns over witness interference and obstruction of justice. The prosecution presented an affidavit detailing twelve grounds against granting bail, claiming that Natembeya's agents attacked EACC officers during a lawful search at his residences. The prosecution submitted photographic evidence of vandalized vehicles. They also argued that Natembeya's position as governor poses a risk to potential witnesses, who are mostly his subordinates.

Natembeya has been charged in a KSh1.4 billion graft case involving conflict of interest and unlawful enrichment. He pleaded not guilty to four charges linked to proxy firms and misappropriated county tenders. Prosecutors allege Natembeya benefited from over KSh6 million paid to companies tied to his associates, including a top finance officer. The charges include conflict of interest and unlawful acquisition of public property. Prosecutors claim Natembeya indirectly benefited from payments to companies linked to associates Mercy Chelangat and Emmanuel Wafula Masungo, the county’s Chief Officer for Finance.

The court heard that Lyma Agro Science Ltd and Maira Stores, allegedly associated with Chelangat, were paid by the Trans Nzoia County Government, with proceeds traced to Natembeya. Easterly Winds Ltd, owned by Masungo, allegedly funnelled another KSh2.1 million to the governor. Count IV accuses Natembeya of unlawfully acquiring KSh3.2 million in public funds through these companies. The ODPP strongly opposed bail, citing potential interference with investigations or intimidation of witnesses, also pointing to the previous attack on EACC and DCI officers by Natembeya's supporters.

DAP-K party leader Eugene Wamalwa and Roots Party leader George Wajackoyah were present in court in support of Natembeya. The Mulembe Unified Forum accused the government of targeting progressive leaders, pointing to the raid on Natembeya's residence and the arrest of Mumias East MP Peter Salasya. The EACC defended its decision to arrest Natembeya, stating it was part of an ongoing investigation into alleged procurement irregularities and conflict of interest. The agency defended the presence of armed officers as necessary for the safety of its personnel.

EACC Director of Ethics and Leadership John Lolkoloi stated the operation was conducted with full legal backing and urged leaders to uphold the rule of law. He dismissed claims of political influence, noting the probe began before recent political statements. The EACC acknowledged that some corruption cases have collapsed due to weak evidence and is seeking delegated prosecution powers. Lolkoloi claimed the Commission is guided by facts and complaints, not political alignment.

Natembeya was released on a Ksh1 million bond or a cash bail of Ksh500,000, barred from accessing his office for 60 days, and prohibited from leaving the country or commenting on the case. The ODPP alleges Natembeya unlawfully acquired Ksh3.25 million in public funds. Natembeya denied the charges. His lawyers raised concerns about the changed charge sheet, citing an initial allegation of Ksh4.1 billion graft. A standoff occurred between supporters and police outside the Milimani Law Courts.

The Anti-Corruption Court released Natembeya on a cash bail of Sh500,000 or a bond of Sh1 million, barring him from his office for 60 days and from contacting witnesses. Natembeya's lawyers argued the prosecution's case was politically motivated. Macharia Njeru alleged political interference, criticizing the manner of Natembeya’s arrest. Njiru accused the state of acting in bad faith and described the affidavit by investigating officer Robert Rono as speculative.

Trans Nzoia MCAs defended Natembeya, claiming the state was using the EACC to settle political scores. They called for a speedy hearing to allow Natembeya to continue serving the people. The MCAs claimed Natembeya was being targeted for his political stand and termed the raid on his home an attempt to silence him. The EACC stated the raid and arrest related to irregular payments of KSh 1.4 billion by the county government, also searching the residences of four other county officials.