NAIROBI, Kenya – The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has ordered the prosecution of Bomet Governor Hillary Kipngeno Barchok over alleged conflict of interest and unlawful acquisition of public property.
In a statement on Thursday, the DPP said the directive follows inquiry files submitted by the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) on July 18, 2025, under section 35 of the Anti-Corruption and Economic Crimes Act.
Investigators allege that Governor Barchok unlawfully received Sh2.75 million from companies trading with the Bomet County government between the 2019/2020 and 2024/2025 financial years.
The EACC recommended charges against him alongside Evans Kipkoech Korir, director of Chemasus Construction Limited.
“Upon thorough review, I have directed that Governor Hillary Kipngeno Barchok be charged with conflict of interest and unlawful acquisition of public property,” the DPP stated.
The ODPP further announced that Barchok, Korir, and Chemasus Construction Limited will also face charges of acquiring proceeds of crime under the Proceeds of Crime and Anti-Money Laundering Act, 2009.
Wangamati, County Officials, and Contractors Also Implicated
The DPP also confirmed that former Bungoma Governor Wycliffe Wangamati and several county officials and contractors will face graft-related charges over the alleged embezzlement of Sh70.2 million.
Those implicated include county executives, supply chain managers, and directors of multiple construction companies, among them Michael Simiyu Wangamati, Edward Maaya Makhanu, Jumah Swaleh Juma, Wafula Wakoli Chesititi, Sandra Nasambu Soita, and several members of the Wangamati family.
“Wycliffe Wangamati will be charged with conflict of interest… while other suspects will face counts ranging from acquisition of proceeds of crime to fraudulent procurement practices,” the DPP said.
Ongoing Probes on Governors Wamatangi and Mohamud Ali
The ODPP also revealed that investigations into Kiambu Governor Paul Kimani Wamatangi and Marsabit Governor Mohamed Mohamud Ali are still underway.
EACC alleges that Governor Wamatangi oversaw a Sh1.27 billion tender scheme while serving as Senate Roads and Transportation Committee chair, with companies linked to his wife, children, and sister winning road contracts.
One of the firms, Lub Plus Oil & Energy, reportedly received more than Sh615 million.
In Marsabit, Governor Ali and his family are alleged to have benefitted from Sh728 million in contracts awarded between 2017 and 2024.
Six firms linked to the governor, his wives, Senator Mohamed Chute, and close associates allegedly secured 104 tenders for medical supplies, water projects, and road construction.
The DPP stressed that the prosecutions reflect a renewed commitment to hold senior officials accountable and safeguard public funds.
“Further inquiries will be conducted to establish the full extent of misconduct and ensure justice is served,” the office said.
