Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Kenyans.co.ke
Published on 2024-02-24 22:04:06
Former Kakamega Governor Wycliffe Oparanya is facing the risk of being rearrested after the Director of Public Prosecution Renson Ingonga approved the recommendation for his prosecution. This decision comes after the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) found evidence suggesting Oparanya, who is also a deputy leader of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), has a case to answer in a corruption probe.
In a recent quarterly report released by EACC, it was revealed that Oparanya was under investigation for allegedly receiving kickbacks amounting to Ksh56 million through tenders awarded to various companies during his 10-year term as governor, which ended in 2022. The Commission also alleged that the former governor received these illegal payments through proxies.
Additionally, EACC accused Oparanya of receiving payments totaling Ksh9 million for the use of his property. The report stated, “It was also established that the former Governor entered into a tenancy agreement with the Kakamega County Government for a lease of land and buildings erected thereon for Ksh9,200,000.” This raised concerns of conflict of interest as the land in question was identified as the governor’s property.
Based on its investigations, EACC recommended that Oparanya be charged with conspiracy to commit corruption, conflict of interest, abuse of office, and money laundering. The report also mentioned that his spouses and some directors of the companies involved in the tenders could face fresh arrests as well.
Despite the approval for his prosecution, Oparanya has obtained court orders preventing his arrest and prosecution. These orders were granted following a previous raid at his home in Nairobi in August 2023, where he was interrogated at the Integrity Centre and later released.
Furthermore, EACC is continuing its investigations into other national and county government officials implicated in various offenses. The report highlighted that the DPP directed EACC to conduct further investigations in 14 corruption cases.
It is important to note that the DPP’s approval for Oparanya’s prosecution signifies a significant development in the fight against corruption in Kenya. The decision demonstrates the commitment of law enforcement agencies to hold public officials accountable for their actions and uphold the rule of law.
As the legal proceedings unfold, the outcome of Oparanya’s case will have far-reaching implications on the political landscape and governance in Kenya. It serves as a reminder that no one is above the law, and those found guilty of corruption will face the consequences of their actions.
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