EACC Arrests Former High Court Judge Joseph Mutava, Lawyer Over Sh10.4mn Bribery Allegations

The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) Monday arrested former High Court judge Joseph Mutava and advocate Kimani Wachira over an alleged bribery scheme linked to a commercial dispute currently before the High Court of Kenya.

Officials at the anti-graft agency confirmed that Mutava, Wachira and two other suspects were arrested following investigations into claims that they demanded a bribe of USD80,000 (approximately Sh10.4 million).

According to the EACC, the money was allegedly solicited to influence the outcome of a commercial case involving a former Cabinet minister, which is currently pending before the High Court.

The four suspects were held at the EACC Integrity Centre Police Station in Nairobi as investigators finalize processing ahead of their expected arraignment on Tuesday.

The commission said the arrests follow increasing public and media inquiries regarding the matter, adding that investigations are ongoing.

EACC reiterated its commitment to combating corruption and safeguarding the integrity of the judiciary, warning that individuals found culpable will face the full force of the law.

Mutava was removed from office in 2016 following findings of gross misconduct and corruption, which were later upheld by the Supreme Court.

A tribunal chaired by David Maraga established he improperly handled cases, including a dispute involving businessman Kamlesh Pattni.