The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) has confirmed it will prosecute former officials of Homa Bay County and their associates over alleged procurement irregularities worth Sh348.9 million.
The decision as announced by the ODPP on Friday comes after the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) submitted an inquiry file detailing concerns about the tendering process for the construction of the Homa Bay County Assembly office block.
Investigations revealed that six senior county officials were involved in allegedly improper procedures during the awarding of the contract.
The tender was reportedly given to a company linked to county employees, raising questions about potential conflicts of interest and misuse of public resources.
The accused face charges under the Anti-Corruption and Economic Crimes Act, 2003, including abuse of office, willful failure to comply with procurement laws, conflict of interest, and unlawful or fraudulent acquisition of public property. The arraignment of the accused is expected in court as the prosecution prepares its case.
In a statement, the ODPP emphasized its role in safeguarding public interest, saying, “The ODPP reiterates its commitment to upholding the rule of law, promoting public interest, ensuring the proper administration of justice, and preventing the abuse of legal processes in the discharge of its constitutional mandate.”
The case underscores the DPP’s ongoing efforts to ensure accountability and transparency in county management and to prevent the misuse of public funds by officials entrusted with public resources.
