The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has opened a major search operation that targets Nyamira Governor Amos Nyaribo as well as senior officials in his administration over alleged corruption and the misuse of public funds.
The simultaneous raids, which started early Wednesday, span the areas of Nyamira, Kisii, and Nairobi counties where EACC investigators with search warrants issued by the court are carrying them out.
Confirming the issuance of the search warrants, the anti-corruption agency said the exercise is a part of ongoing investigations into the irregular award of a contract worth KSh 382 million for the construction of the Nyamira County Government offices.
The contract which was awarded to Spentech Engineering Limited has, however, been paid for despite that the project is not yet complete, according to the agency.
Initial findings from the EACC reveal that there may have been misappropriation of public funds as well as lack of value for money in project execution.
Moreover, by these means, the law enforcement officers want to find out if Governor Nyaribo unilaterally authorized himself to receive payments amounting to KSh 18 million i.e., KSh 5 million as ex gratia and KSh 13 million as house allowance reimbursement apart from the KSh 18 million figure mentioned as total.
Commission sources disclose that top officials in the county finance, roads, and procurement sectors have equally been named as persons of interest regarding these investigations.
“The searches are aimed at gathering crucial evidence to support the ongoing investigations into suspected misappropriation of public funds and abuse of office,” remarked a staff member who is well conversant with the operation.
EACC has been quite vocal about the fact the they are deeply committed to the implementation of accountability and integrity measures through the management of the devolved funds.
Upon the completion of the operation and the EACC’s findings, the commission will be in a position to respond with an official and detailed statement.
