The EACC arrested former Kericho Chief Officer in charge of Public Works, Roads and Transport Peter Kipyegon Kosgey on June 10, 2020.
The former chief officer was arrested alongside 6 other officials including county Civil Engineer Joash Chirchir, Procurement Officer Charles Mabwai, Accountant Aaron Waiharo Njoroge, Roads Inspectors Stanely Ruto Cheruyot and Lilian Chepkoech as well as Jawlink Logistics Director John Kimutai.
According to a statement by EACC, the commission was investigating a complaint alleging conflict of interest and procurement irregularities by officials of the County Government of Kericho.
Investigators stated that the county irregularly awarded a contract for the construction of the Bae-Kapsimotwet-Kibaraa road to Jawlink Logistics Limited.
The controversial tender was worth Ksh5.6 million and breached procurement laws.
“Among the issues established during the investigations include that a county official involved in the tender process was also a director of Jawlink Logistics Limited.
“The firm was neither prequalified by the county government nor registered with the National Construction Authority,” a statement by EACC read.
The National Construction Authority (NCA) is a government organisation which regulates, streamlines and builds capacity in the construction industry.
Section 5(2) (k) of The National Construction Authority empowers the Authority to "Accredit and register contractors and regulate their professional undertakings.
One of Jawlink Logistics Directors, Japheth Kipgenoh was directed to present himself at the nearest EACC offices with immediate effect.
The suspects will be arraigned at the Anti-corruption Court in Kericho on Thursday, June 11, 2020.
“Upon an independent review of the evidence, Director of Public Prosecutions Noordin Haji issued consent to apprehend and charge the eight suspects with various offences under the Anti Corruption and Economic Crimes Act No.3 of 2003 and for violations of procurement laws,” stated EACC.
