Kenya Power Bosses in Hot Water Over Ksh 150 Million Fraud Scandal

By THE DISPATCH DIGITAL REPORTER

Seven top brass at Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC) have been dragged into the spotlight after being found with a case to answer over a whopping Ksh 150 million fraud. The high-profile group of senior employees now face serious charges of economic crimes following a court ruling today.

The Anti-Corruption Court at Milimani ruled that the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) had presented enough evidence to proceed with the case against these seven power bigwigs, sending shockwaves through the country’s energy sector.

The Accused
The powerful group of accused includes:

Harun Karisa – General Manager, Finance
Eng. Dr. Noah Ogano Omondi – Member, Tender Evaluation Committee
Eng. Daniel Ochieng Muga – Acting Head of Supply Chain
Eng. John Mwaura Njehia – Member, Tender Evaluation Committee
James Muriuki – Member, Tender Evaluation Committee
Bernard Muturi – Member, Tender Opening and Evaluation
Eng. Evelyne Pauline Amondi – Member, Tender Opening Committee
These high-ranking execs now face a range of serious charges, including conspiracy to commit economic crimes, willful failure to comply with procurement laws, and abuse of office. The charges stem from accusations that they rubber-stamped tenders for contractors despite glaring irregularities, leading to massive payments of Ksh 150 million in what prosecutors described as a blatant abuse of the procurement process.

Prosecution Takes Aim
Leading the prosecution are Ms. Wangia, Ms. Mwila, and Ms. Njuguna, who didn’t hold back in court. They slammed the accused for their negligence in handling the tender process, which they claim paved the way for irregular payments to contractors – with taxpayers ultimately footing the bill. According to the prosecution, the accused sat on committees that prequalified dodgy bidders, allowing them to walk away with the lion’s share of millions.

Next Steps
With the court finding a prima facie case against the seven, all eyes are now on October 15, 2024, when the accused will have to reveal how they plan to defend themselves. The public awaits with bated breath as the scandal unfolds, wondering what more will come to light as Kenya Power’s dirty laundry is aired in court.

As the prosecution gears up for the next round, one thing is clear – this is a case that’s set to electrify the nation. Keep your eyes peeled, as the fate of some of Kenya’s top power players hangs in the balance.