Kiambu Governor Kimani Wamatangi is facing serious allegations of corruption after the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) raided his home and office on April 15, 2025.
During the early morning operation, officials from the EACC recovered Sh12 million in cash and $13,000, which they suspect are proceeds of graft.
This is part of a larger investigation into a Sh1.5 billion scandal involving irregular tenders, fictitious payments, and questionable procurement practices within Kiambu County.
One of the main issues under probe is a Sh230 million contract awarded to Filtronic International Limited for an ERP system, which was allegedly issued without following proper procurement procedures. The entire scandal appears to revolve around a well-coordinated network within the county government, including top officials from the finance, lands, and supply chain departments.
This is not the first time Kiambu has been in the headlines for corruption. The county has a dark past, with former governor Ferdinand Waititu previously convicted in a Ksh588 million graft case.
Wamatangi’s case seems to mirror some of the same patterns, with accusations of abuse of office, conflict of interest, and misuse of public funds. The EACC has stated that the cash recovered during the raids will be used as evidence, and if the investigations confirm foul play, prosecutions and asset seizures will follow.
Apart from Wamatangi, nine other senior officials from the county government have also been implicated, showing just how deep the alleged corruption runs.
Reactions to the arrest have been mixed. Some of Wamatangi’s supporters have taken to the streets, protesting his arrest and calling for his immediate release.
They believe the governor is being targeted unfairly, with some even suggesting political motives behind the EACC’s actions. Videos circulating online show protesters outside the EACC offices in Nairobi and near his residence, holding placards and chanting slogans in his support.
The demonstrations caused traffic disruptions and were eventually dispersed by police officers. However, not everyone is sympathetic.
A section of the public, including some local leaders, believe that this is a necessary step in cleaning up corruption in county governments.
They argue that the evidence speaks for itself and that no one should be above the law.Senator Karungo Wa Thang’wa is among those who have been vocal about corruption in Kiambu.
In February 2025, he raised concerns about the county reverting to manual payment systems, which allegedly led to the theft of Sh390 million through ghost workers. He publicly called on the EACC to take action, a request that now seems to have been answered.
The EACC’s move has been viewed by many as a warning shot to other county bosses who may be involved in similar schemes. Whether Wamatangi and his co-accused will face convictions remains to be seen, but the public expects thorough investigations and, if necessary, prosecutions.
As the investigations continue, residents of Kiambu are left in uncertainty. Service delivery is likely to be affected, and the county’s reputation continues to suffer.
Meanwhile, the EACC has a tough task ahead, not just in presenting evidence but also in restoring public confidence in its ability to combat corruption effectively.
The case highlights the urgent need for greater transparency and accountability in the management of public funds. It also reminds Kenyans that corruption is still deeply rooted in many levels of government and that without firm action, the cycle will continue.
