Bomet Governor Hillary Barchok Arrested in Ksh.1.5B Corruption Scandal – EACC’s Major Crackdown on Graft!

by Ja Efeso · Published 06/02/2025 · Updated 07/02/2025

Bomet Governor Hillary Barchok Arrested in Ksh.1.5B Corruption Scandal – EACC’s Major Crackdown on Graft

EACC Targets Bomet County in Major Anti-Corruption Crackdown

The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has intensified its fight against corruption in Bomet County, leading to the arrest of Governor Hillary Barchok and several senior officials. This high-profile case involves the alleged embezzlement of Ksh.1.5 billion in public funds, making it one of the biggest corruption scandals in recent Kenyan history.

Early Morning Raids Expose Multi-Billion Fraud Scheme

On October 24, 2024, EACC officers conducted simultaneous raids on the homes and offices of key county officials, including County Executive Committee (CEC) members and Chief Officers (COs). The coordinated operation was aimed at uncovering crucial evidence related to massive financial mismanagement, procurement fraud, and abuse of office.

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President Ruto’s Visit Adds Complexity to the Case

The dramatic raids took place during President William Ruto’s visit to Bomet County, adding political significance to the unfolding investigation. Sources indicate that the president was briefed about the situation, underscoring the national government’s commitment to tackling corruption at all levels.

Breakdown of the Ksh.1.5 Billion Embezzlement Allegations

According to EACC officials, the alleged fraudulent activities in Bomet County involve multiple schemes, including:

1. Misappropriation of County Funds

Investigators uncovered that Ksh.1.2 billion was illegally paid to companies linked to county officials, their relatives, and business associates.
These companies allegedly received funds for non-existent services and substandard projects, raising serious accountability concerns.

2. Dubious Procurement of Road Construction Machinery

The county government allocated Ksh.373 million for the purchase of 12 heavy road construction machines and trucks in the 2022/2023 financial year.
However, audits reveal that the machinery was either overpriced, substandard, or never delivered.
Several companies involved in these deals are now under investigation for colluding with county officials.

EACC Spokesperson Confirms Major Breakthrough

EACC Spokesperson Eric Ngumbi confirmed the successful raids, stating that investigators recovered crucial documents, transaction records, and electronic evidence linking top officials to the alleged fraud.

“The evidence we have collected so far strongly indicates systemic corruption in Bomet County. We are now conducting further analysis to determine the next steps, including possible prosecution and recovery of stolen funds,” said Ngumbi.

Key Arrests and Legal Proceedings Underway

Following the operation, several senior county officials, including CEC members and Chief Officers, were arrested for questioning at EACC offices. Governor Hillary Barchok was also detained and is expected to be formally charged in court once investigations are concluded.

Legal Consequences for the Accused Officials

The arrested officials have recorded statements and could face charges related to abuse of office, economic crimes, and procurement fraud.
If found guilty, they could face heavy fines, asset seizures, and long prison sentences.
The EACC has vowed to recover stolen funds and prevent further loss of public resources.

Bomet County Assembly Demands Immediate Action

In response to the corruption allegations, the Bomet County Assembly passed a motion on November 2, 2024, calling for immediate disciplinary action against 18 implicated officers.

Assembly’s Demands Include:

Governor Barchok and the County Public Service Board (CPSB) must dismiss all officials linked to the scandal.
The implicated officials should be barred from holding public office until cleared by investigations.
The county government must enhance financial oversight to prevent future corruption cases.

The assembly granted a two-week deadline for the governor and CPSB to act, warning of further consequences if no action is taken.

Why This Corruption Scandal Matters

1. A Major Test for Kenya’s Anti-Corruption War

This case highlights the serious corruption challenges in Kenya’s county governments. With billions of taxpayer funds at stake, the Bomet scandal serves as a litmus test for the EACC and judiciary in their commitment to enforcing anti-corruption laws.

2. Impact on Public Services in Bomet County

The loss of Ksh.1.5 billion means that essential services such as healthcare, infrastructure, and education have suffered. Residents of Bomet have expressed outrage over the scandal, calling for swift action to restore accountability and transparency in local governance.

3. The Political Ramifications

The scandal could have major implications for Governor Barchok’s political future.
With the 2027 elections on the horizon, opposition leaders are already using this scandal to criticize the current administration’s governance record.
President William Ruto’s administration is under pressure to show its commitment to ending corruption in devolved units.

What Happens Next?

The EACC has assured the public that investigations will continue, with the following expected developments:

Further arrests: More county officials and business associates linked to the fraud could be arrested in the coming weeks.
Court proceedings: Governor Barchok and the accused officials will likely be arraigned in court to face formal charges.
Asset recovery efforts: The EACC, in collaboration with the Assets Recovery Agency (ARA), will seek to recover stolen funds and seize assets acquired through illicit means.
Public demonstrations: Civil society groups and residents of Bomet may stage protests to demand justice and accountability from their leaders.

Conclusion: The Fight Against Corruption Must Continue

The Bomet corruption scandal underscores the urgent need for stronger oversight, transparency, and enforcement of anti-corruption measures in Kenya. As Governor Hillary Barchok and his officials face legal scrutiny, the case serves as a powerful reminder that public resources must be safeguarded for the benefit of citizens, not personal enrichment.

The EACC’s swift action in cracking down on graft in Bomet County signals a growing commitment to ending impunity and restoring public trust. However, the ultimate test will be whether the courts deliver justice and ensure that those responsible are held accountable to the full extent of the law.

Stay Updated on the Latest Developments

We will continue to monitor this case and provide updates on new arrests, court proceedings, and government actions to combat corruption in Bomet County. Follow us for the latest news on Kenya’s fight against graft!