DPP Orders Prosecution of Bomet Governor Barchok and Ex-Bungoma Governor Wangamati in Fraud Cases
On August 28, 2025, the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Renson Igonga, officially directed that both Bomet Governor Hillary Kipng’eno Barchok and former Bungoma Governor Wycliffe Wangamati face criminal charges over alleged corruption.
Governor Barchok is accused of having a conflict of interest, having received approximately KSh 2,750,000 from firms that engaged with the county between the 2019/20 and 2024/25 financial years. The prosecution is to include money laundering, acquisition of proceeds of crime, and unlawful acquisition of public property. He will be tried alongside Evans Kipkoech Korir, the Director of Chemasus Construction Limited, who is implicated in the same case.
Former Governor Wangamati is charged, along with other county officials, for allegedly embezzling KSh 70,205,882 through private companies. According to the EACC, the tenders were marred by irregularities, raising concerns of conflict of interest, unlawful acquisition of public property, and procurement violations. Following the conclusion of its investigations, the EACC recommended criminal prosecution, a move now endorsed by the DPP.
Furthermore, the DPP has ordered further investigation into files concerning Kiambu Governor Kimani Wamatangi and Marsabit Governor Mohammed Mahamud Ali, who face separate corruption probes.
The directive by the DPP marks a significant step in Kenya’s ongoing fight against corruption, particularly in county governments where procurement scandals remain rampant. The decision sends a strong signal that accountability and transparency will be enforced, regardless of political stature.
As Kenya grapples with economic challenges and growing demands for service delivery, this case highlights the urgent need for clean leadership, prudent management of resources, and stronger oversight in county administrations.
Tags: Dpp Eacc Hillary Barchok Wycliffe Wangamati
