EACC summons Barchok, ex-Bungoma Governor Wangamati
By Mustafa Juma, August 29, 2025The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has summoned Bomet Governor Hillary Barchok and former Bungoma Governor Wycliffe Wangamati to appear before its headquarters on Monday, September 1, 2025, over corruption allegations.
In a statement issued on Friday, August 29, 2025, the Commission announced it had received consent from the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) to charge the two leaders alongside several associates and company directors.
According to EACC, Governor Barchok faces charges of conflict of interest in relation to dealings between the County Government of Bomet and a private company.
“Today, Friday, 29th August 2025, the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) received CONSENT from the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) to charge the following: 1. Investigation into allegations of conflict of interest against the Governor, County Government of Bomet: i. Hillary Kipng’eno Barchok – Governor, County Government of Bomet; and ii. Evans Kipkoech Korir – Director, Chemasus Construction Limited,” the EACC statement read in part.
Accusations against Wangamati
Wangamati, on the other hand, is accused by the EACC of embezzling public funds during his tenure.
The EACC has named more than ten co-persons of interest linked to companies believed to have been used to syphon county resources.
“The above-named suspects are directed to present themselves at the EACC Headquarters, Integrity Centre, on Monday, 1st September 2025, at 8:00 am for processing and arraignment,” EACC CEO Abdi Mohamud said in the statement.
Ruto’s fight against corruption
President William Ruto has, in recent statements, reiterated that the government remains committed to combating corruption.
A fortnight ago, Ruto announced the formation of a new Multi-Agency Team on War Against Corruption (MAT), bringing together key state institutions in a renewed push to curb graft, economic crimes, and misuse of public resources.
In a presidential proclamation issued on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, Ruto outlined the creation of this team, which comprises 11 key agencies, under the leadership of the Executive Office of the President, with the Office of the Attorney General serving as the secretariat.
“The Government of the Republic of Kenya is steadfast in its commitment to reinforcing a ‘whole-of-government’ approach in the fight against corruption,” the proclamation stated.
Ruto cited constitutional obligations in justifying the establishment of the multi-agency team, referencing various articles that impose duties on both the government and citizens.
“The Constitution of Kenya imposes an obligation on all Kenyans to combat corruption,” he emphasised.