On August 28th, 2024, the High Court of Kenya found former Samburu Governor Moses Lenolkulal guilty of conflict of interest and fraud.

He was convicted for receiving over Sh. 83 million from the county government for supplying fuel and oil products through proxies.

The prosecution presented evidence showing that former Governor Moses Lenolkulal and his proxy, Hesbon Ndathi, were the main beneficiaries of the funds intended for supplying petroleum products.

Chief Magistrate Thomas Nzioki stated that the evidence presented clearly proved Lenolkulal’s involvement in the corruption case beyond a reasonable doubt.

“I arrive at the conclusion that the prosecution has proven without reasonable doubt that the accused persons are guilty,” he ruled.

He asserted that public officers must avoid conflict of interest and stick to principles of good governance, pointing out that governors are prohibited from trading with their own county governments.

Aliko Dangote loses top spot as Africa’s richest man

The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) is now working tirelessly to recover the misappropriated funds. Previously, Justice Esther Maina had ordered the seizure of Lenolkulal’s four prime properties in Karen.

The defence had requested bail for the accused person pending sentencing, but the court chose in favour of the prosecution and denied the bail. The former governor will be sentenced on Thursday at 10:30 am.

“I do not find it appropriate to accord the accused persons bail. While I appreciate their good behaviour in court, I quash that request,” Thomas Nzioki stated.