In a landmark decision, former Samburu Governor Moses Lenolkulal has been found guilty of corruption for illegally receiving Sh 83.3 million intended for the supply of petroleum products to the county government.
Magistrate Thomas Nzyoki of the Milimani Anti-Corruption Court determined that Lenolkulal engaged in a conflict of interest by awarding a lucrative tender for fuel supply to his own petrol station.
Magistrate Nzyoki highlighted the overwhelming evidence against Lenolkulal, noting that he had benefited directly from these transactions during his two terms as governor.
Despite this, Lenolkulal was acquitted of charges related to abuse of office.
However, both he and his associate Hesbon Ndathi were convicted of fraudulent acquisition of Sh 83.3 million.
The court found that this sum, which was deposited into the Oryx Station account at KCB Maralal, constituted unlawful acquisition of public property.
In addition to Lenolkulal and Ndathi, the court convicted six other former Samburu County officials, including the county secretary, for abuse of office.
These convictions underscore the severity of the offenses committed and reflect the court’s commitment to addressing corruption within public offices.Lenolkulal, through his lawyer Paul Nyamodi, is seeking bail pending the sentencing and mitigation phase.
This case is notable not only because Lenolkulal is the first governor in Kenya to be convicted of graft but also because it represents the first instance where a governor’s corruption case has been heard to its conclusion.
Magistrate Nzyoki emphasized the prohibition against governors trading with their own county governments, describing Lenolkulal’s actions as a clear example of conflict of interest.
He stated, “There is overwhelming and direct evidence that the governor acted in conflict of interest and acquired direct personal benefit from the fuel supply deal.
This case serves as a classical example of conflict of interest.”Overall, the court’s decision marks a significant moment in the fight against corruption in Kenya, setting a precedent for accountability and legal redress in cases involving high-ranking public officials.
