Kenya’s anti-corruption watchdog, the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC), has revealed that nine sitting governors are currently under investigation in a widening probe into the alleged theft of public funds.
Speaking during an interview with Citizen TV on Tuesday, EACC chairperson Dr David Oginde confirmed that the Commission is pursuing multiple cases involving county leaders accused of diverting millions of shillings meant for development projects into private ventures.
“We are pursuing quite a number of governors at the moment – nine are under scrutiny at different stages of their cases,” Dr Oginde said. “It’s not just governors. It goes down to other county staff.”
Funds Meant for Marginalised Counties Diverted
Dr Oginde expressed concern that some of the counties under probe are among Kenya’s most marginalised regions. He said it was ironic that money meant to improve the lives of disadvantaged communities is being used to finance luxury apartments and high-end businesses in Nairobi.
“I have been surprised that some of the worst-hit counties are those considered marginalised,” he said. “They have been given privileges to try and bring the county up, but the leaders are siphoning that money and bringing it back to Nairobi.”
Tender Manipulation and Insider Deals
Investigators believe many of the alleged schemes involve manipulation of tender processes. County insiders are said to set up companies to win inflated contracts, with junior officers often used as conduits to transfer funds on behalf of senior officials.
Dr Oginde warned that political interference remains one of the biggest obstacles in the fight against graft.
“We have had situations where we arrest senior people and even the day they are coming to record statements, our offices are raided by their supporters,” he said.
No Names Released Yet
The EACC has not named the governors, citing the ongoing nature of investigations. However, critics argue that without swift prosecutions, such probes risk becoming repetitive headlines without tangible justice.
Dr Oginde maintained that the Commission will not relent in its work despite mounting political pressure.
“Counties are what are keeping us busy right now,” he said, warning that unchecked corruption is eroding public trust and stalling development across the country.
