EACC clears Governor Samuel Ole Tunai over graft claims

The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has cleared Narok County Governor Samuel Ole Tunai of corruption allegations.

EACC recommended to the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) Keriako Tobiko to close the file against Tunai.

The commission conducted inquiries on allegations of financial irregularities, human resource management and procurement irregularities in the county against Tunai.

In a letter submitted to the DPP's office on Thursday evening, EACC reiterated their earlier recommendation that the file be closed citing lack of evidence.

Tunai was the subject of a protest in January, this year, over alleged mismanagement of county funds during which two people died.

The protesters accused him of nepotism in employing county staff where people of his clan allegedly had more opportunities than others.

A civil society group, Trusted Society of Human Rights Alliance, had also threatened to collect 150,000 signatures to impeach him on grounds of 'conflict of interest' for he had allegedly contracted his own company to collect revenue in the county.

Tunai, however, rejected the claims saying there is no conflict of interest. He even challenged his critics to use court procedures and seek to recall him.

Former Kenya Railways Corporation Investment Secretary Esther Koimet, has also received the same reprieve from EACC on allegations that during her tenure, she used her office to deprive former employees of the Kenya Railways Corporation house that had been set aside for purchase under the Tenant Purchase Scheme.

On the other hand, former CEO Kenya Trade Agency Alex Kabuga, will be facing charges of abuse of office.

Joseph Alsiola and Peris Livaga both of Vihiga County, will also face charges of obstruction.

However, the accused will have to wait for an official communication from the office of the DPP, whose directive will be based on the threshold of the evidence against them.