DPP Orders Prosecution of Bomet Governor Hillary Barchok and Former Bungoma Governor Wangamati

DPP Orders Prosecution of Bomet Governor Hillary Barchok and Former Bungoma Governor Wangamati

The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Renson Ingonga, has sent shockwaves across Kenya after ordering the prosecution of Bomet Governor Hillary Kipng’eno Barchok and former Bungoma Governor Wycliffe Wangamati over serious corruption allegations.

In his statement on Thursday, August 28, Ingonga confirmed that the decision followed months of investigations by the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC).

“On 18th July 2025, the ODPP received an inquiry file from the EACC accompanied by a report under Section 35 of the Anti-Corruption and Economic Crimes Act,” Ingonga stated.

The Case Against Governor Barchok

According to the DPP, Governor Barchok received Ksh2,750,000 from companies that traded with the county between 2019 and 2025.

He will now face charges of conflict of interest, money laundering, unlawful acquisition of public property, and acquisition of proceeds of crime.

The ODPP directed that he be arraigned in court alongside Evans Kipkoech Korir, the Director of Chemasus Construction Limited.

Wangamati Also in the Hot Seat

Former Bungoma Governor Wangamati is also facing a legal storm. He and several county officials are accused of embezzling Ksh70 million through private companies.

The DPP revealed they would be charged with conflict of interest, unlawful acquisition of public property, and willful failure to comply with procurement laws.

Wamatangi and Ali Under the Radar

Meanwhile, investigations are far from over for Kiambu Governor Kimani Wamatangi and Marsabit Governor Mohammed Mahamud Ali.

Although the EACC recommended prosecution, the DPP said more evidence was required before action could be taken.

Governor Ali and county officials allegedly awarded tenders worth Ksh309 million unlawfully between 2016 and 2024.

For Wamatangi, accusations run deeper. He is alleged to have overseen irregular tenders worth Ksh23 billion during the 2022/2023 financial year.

Further claims link him to companies associated with his wife and sister, raising major conflict of interest concerns.

Warning From the DPP

Ingonga was firm that accountability must prevail regardless of status.

“No leader is above the law. Where evidence exists, prosecution will follow without fear or favor,” he warned.

He also cautioned that disobeying orders or undermining investigations would lead to severe legal consequences.

What This Means

The latest directive signals renewed momentum in Kenya’s anti-corruption fight. However, it also raises tough questions about leadership integrity, misuse of office, and the misuse of billions meant for public service.

Kenyans are now waiting to see if justice will finally catch up with their leaders or if the cases will drag in court like many before them.

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DPP Orders Prosecution of Bomet Governor Hillary Barchok and Former Bungoma Governor Wangamati