KeRRA accountant, 2 accomplices arraigned for fraudulent award of contracts

According to the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC), Esther Wanjiru Chege is alleged to have irregularly awarded tenders to companies closely linked to her immediate family members while she served in various KeRRA regional offices.

"Wanjiru is alleged to have used her position at KeRRA to influence the award of public contracts to companies owned by her spouse and brother," read a statement in part.

EACC's investigations established that the companies include Rokays Enterprise Limited, Reswan Holdings Limited, and Kaydtech Enterprises Limited, all owned by Wanjiru’s spouse Robert Macharia Kimotho.

Further probe revealed that Wanjiru's net salary during the period under review increased from Ksh.49,580 in January 2016 to Ksh. 116,640 by May 2022 and was found in possession of assets that are disproportionate to her known legitimate sources of income.

They were apprehended on May 2, 2025, and the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) gave a nod to charge the suspects with various offences under the Anti-Corruption and Economic Crimes Act (ACECA). 

While appearing in court before Chief Magistrate Roselyne Oganyo, three were charged with conflict of interest, unlawful acquisition of public property, and conspiracy to commit an offence of economic crime, among others.

The fourth suspect also accused in the case was not present as the court was told that he is in Cambodia on a work trip.

They pleaded not guilty to all charges. Further hearing is set for May 9, 2025.