Ex-IEBC Officer Arrested for Allegedly Forging University Degree
A former Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) employee has been arrested and arraigned in court after allegedly using a forged university degree certificate to pursue a job promotion. The dramatic arrest, made by the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC), has once again cast a spotlight on the growing concern of academic fraud within Kenya’s public service.
Mr. Lukaa Musamali Mukimi, who previously served at IEBC, is accused of presenting a falsified Bachelor of Arts in Social Studies (Public Administration) certificate supposedly issued by Moi University. According to EACC, the suspect allegedly used the document in an attempt to secure a promotion within the electoral agency.
The Commission revealed that it received reports questioning the authenticity of the academic certificate. Following the complaint, investigators launched a verification process and later concluded that the certificate was forged. Further findings reportedly indicated that Mr. Mukimi was fully aware that the document was not genuine at the time he submitted it.
After wrapping up its investigations, EACC forwarded the file to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP). The DPP reviewed the evidence and agreed with the Commission’s recommendation to charge the suspect. This paved the way for his arrest on 19th November 2025.
Mr. Mukimi was formally charged on 20th November 2025 before the Milimani Anti-Corruption Court. He now faces three serious charges:
- Forgery, contrary to Section 345 as read with Section 349 of the Penal Code,
- Uttering a False Document, contrary to Section 353 of the Penal Code, and
- Deceiving a Principal, contrary to Section 41(2)(b) as read with Section 48 of the Anti-Corruption and Economic Crimes Act of 2003.
During the court session, the former IEBC employee denied all charges leveled against him. The presiding magistrate granted him a cash bail of Ksh 200,000 or an alternative bond of Ksh 500,000, accompanied by one surety of a similar amount.
The matter has been scheduled for mention on 4th December 2025 before Hon. Okore, Senior Principal Magistrate, where the court is expected to issue additional directions on the progression of the case.
In a statement, EACC reaffirmed its dedication to fighting fraud, corruption, and falsification of documents within public institutions. The Commission emphasized that integrity is a cornerstone of public service and that it will continue to pursue individuals who attempt to manipulate systems through deceit.
As Kenya continues to grapple with concerns surrounding credential fraud, the case against Mr. Mukimi is expected to serve as a strong warning to public officers seeking unfair advantage through forged academic qualifications. The upcoming court mention will determine the next chapter in a case that has already sparked widespread public interest.
