Former senior officials in the West Pokot County government are facing intense scrutiny after the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) opened investigations into the alleged embezzlement of Sh297 million during their tenure. According to officials at EACC’s North Rift regional office in Eldoret, the funds were reportedly siphoned through irregular payments, inflated projects, and questionable procurement deals sanctioned under the previous administration. The investigation, which has drawn national attention, is expected to determine how the suspected loss occurred and whether former county chiefs colluded with contractors and business associates to defraud taxpayers.
Initial findings suggest that the alleged misuse of public funds took place over several financial years and involved multiple departments within the devolved unit. Insiders familiar with the probe say auditors flagged inconsistencies in tendering processes, stalled projects, and unauthorised withdrawals that did not match the county’s official development plans. The case adds to a growing list of financial impropriety claims in devolved governments, mirroring similar probes launched in at least 11 counties. EACC investigators have been summoning former officers, procurement officials, and suppliers to record statements as part of efforts to piece together how the alleged scheme operated.
The allegations have sparked outrage among residents and drawn criticism from governance watchdogs, with many calling for firm action to deter further misuse of devolved funds. Civil society groups argue that repeated theft of county resources undermines service delivery and fuels public mistrust in local leadership. The EACC has assured the public that the case will be pursued to its conclusion and that those found culpable—whether former chiefs, staff, or private actors—will face prosecution. As the probe intensifies, attention is now shifting to whether the county will recover the lost funds and what reforms will be implemented to seal loopholes in public finance management. The outcome of the investigation is expected to shape broader national conversations on accountability within devolved units ahead of the next budget cycle.