EACC Triumphs as Court Orders Recovery of Kes 25.3 Million in Trans Nzoia Stadium Scandal
The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has scored a major legal victory in the fight against corruption after the Milimani Anti-Corruption Court ordered the recovery of Kes 25,334,525.50 in a scandal involving the renovation of Kenyatta Municipal Stadium and the construction of spectator sheds in Trans Nzoia County.
The landmark ruling was delivered by Hon. Justice Nixon Sifuna, who declared the tender process null and void. The court found that the contract had been awarded irregularly and fraudulently, violating procurement laws and procedures. As a result, two key individuals were held responsible for the loss of public funds—Joseph Muindi Tevulo, the former Head of Supply Chain Management at Trans Nzoia County, and businessman Robert Simiyu Wambulwa, who traded under the name KOYI Building Contractors.
Justice Sifuna directed both individuals to refund the full amount paid out in the illegal tender—Kes 25,334,525.50—along with interest accrued from the date the EACC filed the lawsuit until full repayment is made. This judgment sets a precedent in Kenya’s ongoing war against graft and is seen as a warning shot to rogue county officials and fraudulent contractors colluding to loot public coffers.
Illegal Tender Cancelled
The tender in question was awarded for two projects: the renovation of the Kenyatta Municipal Stadium and the construction of spectator sheds—both located in Trans Nzoia County. Investigations by the EACC revealed that the tendering process was riddled with irregularities, including non-compliance with procurement laws and procedures.
The EACC argued in court that the tender was not only unlawfully awarded but that the works carried out under it were either substandard or non-existent. The court agreed, finding that the entire process amounted to a fraudulent scheme to siphon public funds under the guise of development.
A Major Win for Anti-Corruption Efforts
This ruling is being hailed as a significant step forward in the recovery of misappropriated public resources. The EACC emphasized that the judgment underscores the agency’s commitment to holding accountable those responsible for corrupt practices, especially within devolved units.
In a statement following the court’s decision, EACC officials praised the judiciary for supporting efforts to restore public trust in governance. “This is a major win not just for the Commission, but for the people of Kenya. Public funds must be used for intended development purposes, not for enriching individuals through fraudulent deals,” the statement read.
Repercussions for County Officials and Contractors
Legal experts believe this ruling could open the floodgates for similar recovery suits, particularly in counties where billions have been lost to corruption. It also sends a strong signal to procurement officers and contractors who may be tempted to flout the law for personal gain.
For Joseph Muindi Tevulo and Robert Simiyu Wambulwa, the judgment could mark the beginning of further legal troubles, including possible criminal charges. While the current ruling focuses on civil recovery, the EACC has the mandate to pursue criminal prosecutions where fraud is proven.
Public Reaction and Access to the Full Judgment
News of the ruling has sparked mixed reactions across the country, with many Kenyans expressing frustration at the rampant corruption in county governments. Others praised the EACC for its persistence and the judiciary for delivering justice.
Kenyans can access the full court judgment via the following link: bit.ly/3GyubfO
As the EACC continues its mission to recover stolen assets and enforce accountability, this victory adds momentum to the broader campaign for integrity in public service.
