Governor Wamatangi Arrested as EACC Seizes Ksh13 Million in Corruption Probe

Kiambu Governor Kimani Wamatangi and nine senior county officials were apprehended Tuesday morning by the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) following a raid that uncovered millions of Kenyan shillings suspected to be linked to corruption. 

The operation, which targeted Governor Wamatangi’s residence and other premises associated with the officials, resulted in the seizure of substantial cash sums. According to a statement released by EACC Chief Executive Officer Abdi Mohamud, authorities recovered Ksh13 million in cash and USD 13,000 (approximately Ksh1.7 million) from the governor's home. The EACC alleges that these funds are proceeds from illicit activities.

“Today's operation has resulted in the recovery of critical evidentiary material to support ongoing investigations. This includes the seizure of Ksh13 million and USD 13,000 in cash from the residence of Governor Kimani Wamatangi, which is believed to be proceeds of graft,” stated the EACC CEO.

The arrests are part of an ongoing investigation into alleged financial and procurement malpractices within Kiambu County. The EACC has indicated that the recovered cash and other evidence will be used to ensure justice, which may involve prosecuting those found guilty, forfeiting unexplained assets, and confiscating proceeds linked to corruption. The operation follows increasing pressure on the EACC to address allegations of financial mismanagement within Kiambu County's leadership. 

The arrested officials include the County Secretary, Chief Officers for Finance, Directors from the Supply Chain and Revenue departments, CECs for Finance and Lands, a clerical officer, and the director of a company awarded a controversial contract. The officials face charges including conflict of interest, procurement irregularities, and abuse of office in connection with a Ksh230 million contract for an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system. 

Investigators allege that the tendering process for the project was marred by irregularities. The officials are also accused of participating in fraudulent procurement schemes, resulting in payments of Ksh1.5 billion to entities through fictitious supplies and non-compliant processes. Following Wamatangi's arrest, protests erupted outside his home. Residents chanted anti-government slogans, accusing President William Ruto of orchestrating the governor’s troubles. 

Police intervened to prevent disruptions as Wamatangi was escorted to the EACC headquarters in Nairobi. The protests underscore growing discontent among Kiambu residents, who have repeatedly raised concerns about financial governance in the county. Kiambu County's leadership has faced scrutiny for corruption in the past. Former Governor Ferdinand Waititu was recently sentenced to 12 years in prison after being convicted in a Ksh588 million corruption case.

Earlier this year, Kiambu Senator Karungo Wa Thang'wa urged the EACC to investigate allegations that Governor Wamatangi had transitioned from automated payment systems to manual operations, potentially enabling the misappropriation of funds through ghost workers. The senator claimed that Ksh390 million had been misappropriated under this manual system. The EACC's investigation into these allegations is ongoing, adding to the pattern of alleged graft and governance issues in Kiambu County. 

The EACC has reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and accountability during the investigations. The commission is gathering evidence to ensure the prosecution of those involved.