NAIROBI, Kenya – Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya was on Tuesday released on a bond of Sh1 million or an alternative cash bail of Sh500,000 after being charged with multiple counts of corruption.
However, Nairobi Anti-Corruption Court Principal Magistrate Charles Ondieki imposed stringent bail terms, including a 60-day ban from accessing his office.
The governor is also prohibited from leaving the country without court permission and has been ordered not to comment publicly on the ongoing case.
“Any breach of the conditions shall attract attendant consequences, including cancellation of bond or bail,” said Magistrate Ondieki.
In total, the court issued 15 conditions that Natembeya must comply with to remain out on bail.
The governor, who was arrested on Monday, faces three counts of graft involving conflict of interest and the unlawful acquisition of public funds through county procurement deals.
According to the charge sheet, Natembeya allegedly received Sh1,127,900 from Mercy Chelangat, the director of Lyma Agro Science Limited and proprietor of Maria Stores, both of which had contracts with the Trans Nzoia County Government.
In a second count, the governor is accused of acquiring Sh2,124,668 from Emmanuel Wafula Masungo, the beneficial owner of Easterly Winds Limited, another firm contracted by the county.
He was also charged with receiving an additional Sh3,252,568 from Mercy Chelangat—funds said to be part of payments made by the county government to her companies.
Natembeya pleaded not guilty to all charges.
The prosecution had opposed his release on bail, arguing that he posed a risk to witnesses, evidence, and ongoing investigations.
However, the court ruled in favour of granting bail with strict conditions.
