High Court Halts Graft Trial Against Governor George Natembeya

In a major legal reprieve, the High Court has temporarily halted criminal proceedings against Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya, who is facing corruption-related charges.

Justice Bahati Mwamuye issued the conservatory orders on Thursday, suspending the case until a petition filed by Natembeya challenging the charges is determined. The governor argues that his prosecution violates his constitutional rights.

The case, filed at the Milimani Anti-Corruption Court, involves allegations of procurement irregularities and abuse of office during Natembeya’s tenure. The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) claims that the governor unlawfully acquired Ksh3.25 million in public funds between January 2023 and April 2025, with the prosecution alleging conflict of interest involving payments from county contractors.

Justice Mwamuye directed that all respondents, including the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), be served with the petition and court order by June 9.

“The criminal proceedings in Nairobi, Milimani Chief Magistrate’s Anti-Corruption Case No. E024 of 2025 are hereby stayed pending the determination of the application,” the judge ruled.

Constitutional lawyer Joshua Malidzo explained that the ruling temporarily lifts previous court restrictions, including a ban on Natembeya accessing his office. On May 20, Natembeya was released on a Ksh1 million bond or Ksh500,000 bail after being charged. He was also barred from traveling abroad or discussing the case publicly.

The governor, flanked by his legal team including lawyers Ndegwa Njiru, Dan Maanzo, and Ken Aseka, continues to deny all charges, asserting that the funds in question were not improperly obtained. The case is now paused as the High Court evaluates the legality of the prosecution.