The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) has approved charges against Josephat Gichunge Mwirabua Kabeabea, the Chairman of the Anti-Counterfeit Authority, following allegations that he demanded and received a bribe.
The case stems from an investigative file submitted by the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) detailing the alleged offence.
According to the ODPP, the investigation found that Kabeabea demanded Sh5 million from a business owner in exchange for halting investigations and refraining from arresting him and his employees. Evidence also shows that Kabeabea received Sh150,000 during the transaction.
“The DPP has conducted a comprehensive review of the inquiry file pursuant to Section 35 of the Anti-Corruption and Economic Crimes Act, Cap 65 Laws of Kenya, and established that the evidence on record sufficiently discloses the essential elements of the offence of bribery,” the ODPP said in a statement.
As a result, Kabeabea is now set to be charged with bribery contrary to Section 6(1)(a) as read with Section 18 of the Anti-Bribery Act, No. 47 of 2023.
The ODPP emphasized that the decision reflects its commitment to pursuing cases independently and fairly, in line with the Constitution and Kenyan law.
“The ODPP reaffirms its commitment to executing its mandate independently, fairly, and in strict accordance with the Constitution and the laws of Kenya,” the statement added.
The charges come amid Kenya’s broader fight against corruption, signaling that public officials may face legal consequences when implicated in financial wrongdoing. Legal observers note that the case highlights the importance of accountability within government agencies and serves as a warning against abuse of office.
Investigations into corruption and economic crimes in Kenya are ongoing, and authorities have pledged to act on all credible evidence. Kabeabea will now face court proceedings as the judicial process unfolds.
