Governor Natembeya Freed on Bond, Barred from Office & Leaving Kenya for 60 Days
A wave of mixed emotions gripped Kenya on Tuesday, May 21, after Governor George Natembeya was released on bond following graft charges.
The Milimani Anti-Corruption Court granted him a Ksh1 million bond or Ksh500,000 cash bail, but with harsh restrictions.
Heavy Conditions and Court Orders
Principal Magistrate Charles Ondieki delivered the blow.
“You are barred from accessing your office for the next 60 days,” he ruled.
He also stopped the governor from leaving the country without court permission.
“Do not interfere with any witnesses,” the magistrate added firmly.
Natembeya was further warned not to speak about the case in any media or public forum.
Charges: Conflict of Interest and Unlawful Gain
The money came from questionable payments by the Trans Nzoia County Government.
He was also charged with two counts of conflict of interest under the Anti-Corruption and Economic Crimes Act, 2003.
The prosecution team, led by Assistant Director Eliphas Ombati, claimed Natembeya received Ksh1.12 million and Ksh2.12 million from traders doing business with the county.
Still, the Governor stood firm.
“I deny all the charges,” he told the court calmly.
Lawyer Slams EACC for Changing Charges
Before the charges were read, his lawyer Eugene Wamalwa raised eyebrows.
“EACC told Kenyans yesterday it was Ksh1.4 billion. Today, it’s Ksh1.1 million and Ksh2.1 million?”
“They held him overnight and then reduced the figures. What is happening?” Wamalwa asked.
Crowds Demand Justice, Clash With Police
Outside the Milimani Law Courts, tension boiled over.
Hundreds of supporters gathered, chanting slogans and demanding Natembeya’s freedom.
“Free our governor! This is political,” one supporter yelled.
Earlier, on Monday, chaos broke out in Kitale’s Milimani Estate. Protesters deflated and stoned vehicles belonging to EACC officers outside the governor’s home.
The situation remains tense in Trans Nzoia, even as the court scheduled a pre-trial mention for June 3, 2025.
Meanwhile, the prosecution must submit all evidence before then.
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Governor Natembeya Freed on Bond, Barred from Office & Leaving Kenya for 60 Days
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