By Andrew Kariuki
The High Court has issued orders freezing bank accounts linked to Kiambu Governor Kimani Wamatangi, his immediate family members and several associates in connection with an ongoing investigation into alleged corruption involving Ksh813 million.
The orders, granted following an application by the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC), bar access to accounts held by the governor, his wife, children and ten other individuals suspected to be connected to the disputed funds.
Justice Benjamin Musyoki of the Anti-corruption Division of the High Court directed that the freeze will remain in force until the case is heard and determined.
The ruling is a major win for the EACC which moved to court seeking the granted orders.
According to filings before the court, EACC is investigating claims that the funds were obtained through irregular transactions, abuse of office and other unlawful financial dealings.
The commission told the court that preserving the accounts is necessary to prevent possible dissipation of money believed to be at the centre of the probe.
The court directed that the affected accounts remain inaccessible pending further directions, with the matter scheduled for mention on February 4.
The account freeze comes amid heightened scrutiny of Governor Wamatangi’s financial affairs.
Just a day earlier, authorities demolished a car and carpet cleaning business linked to the governor near Nyayo Stadium, an operation carried out under police supervision.
Witnesses reported a heavy security presence as machinery moved in to bring down the premises, a development widely viewed as a sign that investigations into the governor’s dealings are escalating.
The Ksh813 million case is understood to involve questioned payments and contracts allegedly processed during Wamatangi’s time in office.
Legal observers note that freezing accounts at this stage is a significant step, reflecting the seriousness with which the court is treating the allegations.
As investigations continue, the court is expected to give further directions on the matter when it comes up for mention next month.
