By Veronicah Stellah
Former Migori Governor Obado to Appear in Court for Ksh1.98B Corruption Case
Former Migori Governor Zachary Okoth Obado is set to appear this morning at the Milimani Anti-Corruption Court for the hearing of a Ksh1.98 billion corruption case. Obado, along with 15 other accused individuals, including his four children, faces criminal charges related to alleged theft of public funds and conflict of interest within the Migori County Government.
The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has lined up 59 witnesses to testify in an effort to substantiate the charges against the accused. “In today’s hearing before Chief Magistrate Victor Wakumile, the first Prosecution Witness (PW1), EACC Investigating Officer, will narrate to the Court how the fraudulent scheme by the former Governor and 11 other accused persons, including his 4 children and county officials, was hatched and executed,” the EACC stated on X.
The EACC initiated its investigation following allegations of suspicious payments made by the Migori County Government to various companies, amounting to Ksh1.98 billion. While many payments were found to be legitimate, totaling Ksh235 million, a portion was deemed fraudulent and remains unexplained. The Commission claims these funds were used for kickbacks, including payments made to foreign universities for Obado’s children and the purchase of luxury properties for the family. These assets have been recovered through Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) following a civil recovery suit filed in the High Court.
In accordance with court orders issued by Justice Esther Maina, the seized properties will be sold at a public auction. The former governor has already surrendered prime properties and two motor vehicles valued at Ksh235 million.
If convicted, the accused could face significant penalties under section 48 of the Anti-Corruption and Economic Crimes Act, 2003, which includes a maximum jail term of 10 years for each offense and a mandatory fine equal to twice the amount of any public funds lost or benefits acquired. Additionally, section 64 of the Act imposes a 10-year ban on convicted individuals from holding public office.
Last week, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) refuted claims that Obado’s graft case was withdrawn following an out-of-court settlement with the state agency. The ODPP confirmed that the criminal charges remain active, with further hearings scheduled for July 8 and 9.
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