Kiambu County Assembly Deputy Speaker John Njue Njiru is set to be arraigned at the Thika Anti-Corruption Court over allegations of soliciting a Ksh.130,000 bribe. The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) claims Njue requested the payment to facilitate a complainant’s development of a plot valued at Ksh.15 million in Thika Town.
Njue, who serves as the Member of County Assembly (MCA) for Hospital Ward, faces charges of receiving a bribe contrary to the law. According to EACC, the alleged bribe was intended to influence the approval process for the property development. The deputy speaker was arrested by EACC detectives on June 13, 2023, and was subsequently released on a police bail of Ksh.100,000 pending court proceedings.
The case highlights ongoing concerns about corruption and unethical conduct within county governments, where elected officials are expected to uphold transparency and integrity. Legal experts note that convictions in such cases can serve as a deterrent, reinforcing accountability mechanisms in local governance.
The upcoming arraignment will provide an opportunity for Njue to respond to the charges, and the court will determine whether the matter proceeds to trial. The EACC has reaffirmed its commitment to pursuing individuals alleged to have misused public office for personal gain, emphasizing the importance of upholding public trust and safeguarding resources meant for community development.