EACC Arraigns Uasin Gishu Lands Clerk Over Alleged KSh100,000 Bribery Schem
The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission has arraigned a Uasin Gishu Lands Office clerk accused of demanding a KSh100,000 bribe to facilitate a land subdivision transaction.
Uasin Gishu Lands Office clerical officer Noah Kipkemboi Rotich appears in court after being charged by the EACC over allegations of soliciting and receiving a KSh100,000 bribe linked to a land subdivision process. Photo/Courtesy
By Ogolla Geene
The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission arrested and arraigned a clerical officer connected to the Uasin Gishu Lands Office, over claims that he was soliciting, also receiving a bribe linked to a land subdivision deal, basically.
The suspect, Noah Kipkemboi Rotich, appeared in court on Monday, June 8 where he was charged with corruption offenses, all tied to the processing of land subdivision papers.
As per the investigators, the matter kicked off after a member of the public made a complaint to the EACC alleging that the officer demanded money to help, and speed up, the subdivision work.
The complainant said Rotich allegedly asked for KSh100,000 in return for handling the service.
Investigations by the anti-graft body reportedly concluded that Rotich did request the cash and received part of it from the complainant.
“The case arose from a complaint received by the Commission alleging that Rotich had demanded a bribe to facilitate the subdivision process. Investigations established that he had solicited KSh100,000 from the complainant and received part of the bribe,” the EACC said in a statement.
After the investigations, the file was passed to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, and charges were then approved under the Bribery Act 2016 following a review of the evidence.
Prosecutors stated that bribery in the provision of public services erodes transparency, accountability, and public trust in government institutions, more so in the land administration sphere.
When Rotich appeared in court, he was released on cash bail of KSh30,000 or alternatively a bond of KSh100,000, pending the hearing and determination of the case.
The court then fixed a later hearing date so the prosecution and the defence can present their own sides, as required.
In reiterating its resolve against graft, the EACC said it will keep going after anyone who abuses public office for private benefit.
“The Commission remains committed to combating corruption and promoting integrity in public service,” the agency said.
It also warned that any public officer found involved in bribery and other corrupt conduct will be taken through legal action, in line with Kenyan law.
Overall, the matter is part of wider initiatives by anti-corruption agencies aimed at strengthening accountability, improving effectiveness and enhancing transparency in how land services are delivered across the country.
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