NAIROBI, Kenya — The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has opened investigations into Bungoma County over allegations of corruption and misuse of public funds linked to a Sh3.7 million Christmas tree lighting at the Governor’s Office.
In a formal notice dated February 9, 2026, addressed to the County Secretary, EACC requested original documents relating to a benchmarking trip to Mbale, Uganda, undertaken by Members of the Bungoma County Assembly and senior County Executive officials.
The probe covers financial years 2019/2020 and 2020/2021.
The Commission’s letter cited the total cost of Sh6,569,000, which included both the Mbale trip and subsequent Christmas tree lighting.
Officials are required to submit requisitions, approved budgets, imprest warrants, surrender vouchers, cashbooks, bank deposit slips, personal files of key administrators, and all related correspondence by February 16, 2026.
EACC emphasized that the investigation is conducted under its constitutional and statutory mandate under Article 252(1)(a) and (d) of the Constitution and Section 11 of the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Act, 2011. The aim is to determine whether public funds were diverted, mismanaged, or used for fictitious expenses.
The County Secretary and implicated officials, including Sub-County Administrator Festus Juma and Ward Administrator George Makokha, are expected to fully cooperate.
EACC officers E. Kipyego and G. Ligami will receive the documents at the Commission’s offices at the Integrity Centre, Nairobi.
This investigation forms part of ongoing efforts by EACC to clamp down on the misuse of public resources at the county level.
The Sh3.7 million spent on the Christmas tree and the associated trip has drawn public criticism, highlighting growing concerns over fiscal discipline and accountability in Bungoma County.
