Ex-Bungoma Governor Wangamati questioned over Sh70 million tender scandal
The ex-governor is accused of misappropriating public funds during his tenure as county chief
Former Bungoma Governor Wycliffe Wangamati was on Friday, April 11, interrogated by officers from the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) in connection to a suspected multi-million shilling tender scandal allegedly tied to his business interests.
The ex-governor is accused of misappropriating public funds during his tenure as county chief, with claims that he unlawfully awarded road construction contracts to companies reportedly owned by himself and his brothers.
"Following summons by EACC, former Bungoma Governor Wycliffe Wangamati has, today, Friday, April 11, 2025, honoured the summons and appeared before Investigators at the Commission’s Western Regional Offices in Bungoma where he is currently recording a statement," said EACC.
According to the commission, Wangamati is a suspect in an ongoing investigation into allegations of theft of public funds in the Bungoma County Government through the irregular award of road construction tenders worth Ksh70,205,882 to companies linked to him and his five brothers during Financial Years 2017/18-2021/22.
The EACC has indicated that its inquiry into allegations against the former governor could potentially lead to criminal charges and prosecution by the State.
"The findings of the investigation will guide the necessary course of action, which may involve prosecuting those found responsible and recovering any misappropriated public funds," the commission stated.
In Kenya, individuals found guilty of embezzling public resources, particularly through the unlawful awarding of tenders, face both hefty fines and possible jail time.
Anyone found guilty may face a fine of up to one million shillings, a prison sentence not exceeding ten years, or a compulsory additional fine amounting to twice the value of the benefit gained or the loss caused by the corrupt action.
If convicted, Wangamati could follow in the footsteps of former Kiambu Governor Ferdinand Waititu, who was recently sentenced to 12 years in prison and fined Sh53.5 million.