The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has launched an investigation into Kiambu Governor Kimani Wamatangi over allegations of procurement irregularities, abuse of office, and conflict of interest.
On Tuesday, EACC officers executed search warrants at multiple locations, including the homes and offices of nine individuals tied to the case, Governor Wamatangi among them.
EACC CEO Abdi Mohamud stated that the probe is focused on a Sh230 million contract awarded for an enterprise resource planning (ERP) system. The contract, issued during the 2022/2023 financial year to M/s Filtronic International Limited, is suspected to have involved irregular procurement procedures.
Among those under investigation are high-ranking county officials: County Secretary Peter Njoroge Ndegwa, Finance CEC Nancy Njeri Kirumba, Lands and Housing CEC Salome Muthoni Wainaina, Finance Chief Officer William Kinyanjui Kimani, Supply Chain Director Phyllis Wanjiru Muiruri, Revenue Director Henry Mburu Waweru, and Clerical Officer Paul Kibe Wangari. Also under scrutiny is Bernard Kabaiku Theuri, director of M/s Filtronic International Limited.
According to EACC, the suspects may have been involved in irregular procurement practices and fictitious supplies amounting to as much as Sh1.5 billion—violations of public finance and procurement regulations.
During the raids, EACC recovered critical evidence, including Sh12 million and $13,000 (approximately Sh1.6 million) in cash from Governor Wamatangi’s residence. The agency suspects the money to be proceeds of corruption.
Following the raid, Governor Wamatangi appeared at the EACC headquarters at Integrity Centre to record a statement.
The investigation unfolds amid growing public and political pressure on the county administration over allegations of financial mismanagement. Kiambu Senator Karungo Wa Thang’wa has been one of the most outspoken critics, raising concerns earlier this year about the county’s shift from an automated to a manual payroll system—a move he claims facilitated fraudulent payments.
