Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya has been formally charged in a Nairobi court over multiple corruption-related offenses linked to alleged illegal financial dealings involving county funds. The charges were brought before Milimani Anti-Corruption Chief Magistrate Charles Ondieki, where Governor Natembeya pleaded not guilty on three counts, including conflict of interest and unlawful acquisition of public property, violations under the Anti-Corruption and Economic Crimes Act of 2003.
The prosecution alleges that between January 1, 2023, and April 30, 2025, while serving as Governor, Natembeya knowingly acquired indirect pecuniary interests totaling over Ksh3.2 million. These interests were reportedly obtained through business transactions involving companies connected to the Trans Nzoia County Government. Specifically, the companies named in the charges include Lyma Agro Science Limited, Maira Stores, and Easterly Winds Limited.
During the court session, it was noted that Natembeya’s co-accused, Emmanuel Wafula Masungo, the Chief Finance Officer of Trans Nzoia County, was absent and did not appear for plea taking. Masungo faces similar allegations involving conflict of interest and unlawful acquisition of public funds amounting to approximately Ksh2.68 million. It is further alleged that he funneled county payments through Easterly Winds Limited, a company in which he has an interest and holds sole signing authority over its bank accounts.
The charges against Governor Natembeya are detailed across multiple counts. In the first count, he is accused of receiving Ksh1,127,900 from Mercy Chelongat, the Director of Lyma Agro Science Limited and proprietor of Maira Stores. The second count alleges that Natembeya indirectly benefited from Ksh2.1 million through the involvement of Masungo. Meanwhile, Masungo himself is separately accused of unlawfully acquiring public funds through the company he controls.
In addition to these allegations, both Natembeya and Masungo face two further counts related to the unlawful acquisition of public property. The prosecution asserts that these charges arise from abuse of office and conflicts of interest, suggesting a systematic misuse of public resources for personal gain.
Throughout the proceedings, Governor Natembeya has denied all the charges brought against him by the prosecution. His defense maintains that the allegations are unfounded and insists on his innocence.
The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), represented by State Counsel Victor Owiti, requested the court to deny Governor Natembeya bail as the case proceeds. The DPP’s argument for bail denial is based on the severity of the charges and the potential risks involved should the governor be released pending the hearing and determination of the matter.
The case against Governor Natembeya and Emmanuel Wafula Masungo marks a significant development in the ongoing fight against corruption in county governments. It highlights the scrutiny of public officials who are accused of leveraging their positions for personal enrichment at the expense of public resources.
The court proceedings are expected to continue with further evidence presentation and examination as both sides prepare for a protracted legal battle. The outcome of this case could have wider implications on governance and accountability within county administrations across the country.
Meanwhile, the absence of the Chief Finance Officer at the plea hearing has drawn attention, with expectations that he will appear in court to answer the charges soon. Both accused parties are under the spotlight as the judicial process unfolds, with the public closely monitoring developments amid growing concerns over corruption in the public sector.
This case reinforces the government’s stance on zero tolerance towards corruption and underscores the role of judicial processes in ensuring that public officials are held accountable for their actions. As the trial progresses, stakeholders await justice and hope that it will serve as a deterrent against similar acts of corruption in the future.
