Nairobi, Kenya – August 28, 2025 — The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has ordered the prosecution of Bomet Governor Hillary Barchok over allegations of conflict of interest and unlawful acquisition of public funds.
The decision follows investigations by the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC). The agency submitted inquiry files to the DPP on July 18, 2025, under section 35 of the Anti-Corruption and Economic Crimes Act.
Barchok Accused of Receiving Payments from Suppliers
Investigators allege that Governor Barchok received Sh2.75 million from companies that traded with Bomet County between 2019 and 2025. The funds were linked to Chemasus Construction Limited, whose director, Evans Kipkoech Korir, also faces prosecution.
The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) confirmed that Barchok will face charges of conflict of interest and unlawful acquisition of public property. Prosecutors also said Barchok, Korir, and Chemasus Construction Limited will be charged with acquiring proceeds of crime under the Proceeds of Crime and Anti-Money Laundering Act, 2009.
Former Bungoma Governor Wycliffe Wangamati Also Named
The DPP has also directed charges against former Bungoma Governor Wycliffe Wangamati. He and several county officials are linked to the alleged theft of Sh70.2 million.
Those named include:
- Maurice Waiile Marango, Bungoma County Roads Chief Officer
- Alex Musonye Odanga, Director of Supply Chain Management
- Directors of companies tied to Michael Simiyu Wangamati
Michael Wangamati, Nicholas Wangamati, Edward Barasa Wangamati, and Nabwala Construction Ltd will be charged with acquiring proceeds of crime. Others, including Edward Maaya Makhanu and Sandra Nasambu Soita. They will will face procurement fraud charges under the Public Procurement and Asset Disposal Act, 2015.
Ongoing Investigations Into Other Governors
The DPP also confirmed investigations into Kiambu Governor Paul Kimani Wamatangi and Marsabit Governor Mohamed Mohamud Ali.
The EACC claims Governor Wamatangi oversaw a Sh1.27 billion tender scheme involving road contracts while serving as a senator. Companies owned by his wife, children, and sister allegedly benefited from payments while he chaired the Senate Roads and Transportation Committee.
Investigators further allege that Lub Plus Oil & Energy, a company owned by Wamatangi’s family, received more than Sh615 million between 2017 and 2022.
DPP Pledges Accountability
“The inquiries will establish the full extent of misconduct and ensure justice,” the ODPP stated.
The prosecutions mark a significant step in Kenya’s ongoing war on corruption. They also highlight renewed pressure on governors, many of whom face mounting questions over public spending.
For Kenyan citizens, the cases will serve as a test of whether powerful political figures can finally be held accountable.
