Former Samburu Governor Moses Lenolkulal has been fined Ksh. 85 million or face an 8-year jail term.
The court found him guilty of corruption involving public funds totaling Ksh. 84 million.
The charges against Lenolkulal included abuse of office, conflict of interest, and unlawful acquisition of public property.
Chief Magistrate Thomas Nzioki delivered the sentence on Thursday evening.
Lenolkulal was fined Ksh. 1 million or given a 4-year prison term for the conflict of interest charges. Additionally, he was fined Ksh. 1 million or another 4 years in jail for unlawful acquisition of public property. A further fine of Ksh. 83.4 million was imposed for unlawfully taking public funds.
The court also barred Lenolkulal from holding any elective office for 10 years.
Joseph Lenolkulal Associate Sentenced
Joseph Lenolkulal’s former associate, Hesbon Ndathi, who acted as a proxy to receive the graft proceeds, was also convicted. He was also slapped with a Ksh. 83 million fine or sentenced to 8 years in prison.
Other county officials who were involved received lighter sentences. Former County Secretary Stephen Letinina and chief officers Daniel Nakuo, Josephine Lenasalia, Reuben Lemuneyete, Milton Lenolngenje, Geoffrey Kitewan, Paul Lolmingan, Lilian Balanga, and Bernard Lesurmat were each fined Ksh. 700,000 or given a 4-year prison term.
Meanwhile, investigations continue into 40 other current and former county officials accused of embezzling over Ksh. 100 billion.
The case against Lenolkulal and his co-accused highlights ongoing efforts to tackle corruption and misuse of public funds in Kenya.
By Vivian K.