By Nelson Musungu, Bungoma
The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has recommended the prosecution of former Bungoma Governor Wycliffe Wangamati and Webuye West MP Dan Sitati Wanyama over the alleged misappropriation of Sh70 million through irregular tender awards during Wangamati’s tenure.
The recommendation comes just a day after EACC Chief Executive Officer Abdi Mohamud revealed that investigations into five sitting governors and eleven former county chiefs were at an advanced stage.
According to the EACC report sent to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), the former governor, the legislator, senior county officials, and contractors face possible charges of abuse of office, conflict of interest, willful failure to comply with procurement laws, and acquisition of proceeds of crime.
The commission alleges that between November 2017 and August 2021, at least 16 companies were used to siphon county funds through irregularly awarded contracts in the Department of Roads, Infrastructure and Public Works.
Seven companies under investigation—Valeria Construction Limited, Mundesi Contractors Limited, Kelco Builders Limited, Fastec Supplies Limited, Nabweso Builders Limited, Nasikhab Civil Contractors Limited, and Nabuala Construction Company Ltd are said to have received more than Sh70 million through questionable tenders.
Wangamati Brothers Linked to Companies
Investigators established that Nabuala Construction Company Ltd, whose directors are Michael, Edward, George and Silvan Wangamati, brothers of the former governor received Sh37 million directly into its Cooperative Bank account.
EACC said documents obtained from the Department of Roads and other counties revealed procurement irregularities, including falsified records of past works. Forensic document analysis confirmed that some of the companies had fabricated evidence of experience, despite being newly registered.
The commission indicated that its investigation involved scrutiny of bank and M-Pesa records, business registration details, and interviews with county staff. The findings have since been forwarded to the ODPP for review and possible prosecution of the implicated individuals and firms.
Bungoma Senator Wafula Wakoli welcomed the move, saying those found culpable should be held accountable.
“Nobody will tell us how we should work. The Senate will continue to perform its oversight role. Those who steal from the public must face justice,” said Wakoli, dismissing claims by President William Ruto that the Senate was shielding corruption.
Residents also expressed support for the investigations. Isaac Wanjecheke, a resident of Webuye West, said corruption had long been a concern in the constituency.
“This is not the first time we are complaining about corruption in Webuye West. Investigating MP Wanyama is a good move that could help reclaim stolen public funds,” Wanjecheke said, while also urging the President to extend the crackdown to the ruling UDA party.
