Kiambu Governor Wamatangi’s accounts frozen in Sh0.8billion graft probe
Kiambu Governor Kimani Wamatangi’s legal troubles have intensified after the High Court ordered the freezing of bank accounts linked to him, his wife, children, and ten other individuals over an ongoing Sh0.8 billion graft probe. The orders were issued a day after property associated with the governor was demolished, an incident that sparked widespread debate over the use of state power.
The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has filed a Sh813 million civil recovery suit, alleging that the funds represent proceeds of corruption and unjust enrichment linked to road construction tenders in Kiambu County. The High Court granted interim preservation orders to freeze the accounts pending the hearing and determination of the case.
In a ruling delivered on Thursday, January 15, 2026, Justice Benjamin Mwikya noted that when the matter initially came before the trial judge, there were no preservation orders in place. He agreed with the EACC that circumstances had since changed, justifying interim court intervention in the interest of justice. The judge granted the orders until February 4, 2026, when the matter will be mentioned for further directions.
The EACC argued that without the freezing orders, there was a real risk that the funds under investigation could be transferred or spent, undermining the purpose of the recovery suit. The orders apply to multiple bank accounts held by the governor, his immediate family members, and other individuals and entities named in the case.
The decision comes amid a procedural dispute after Governor Wamatangi applied for the recusal of the judge initially handling the matter. That application has stalled substantive proceedings, with the defence arguing that no other applications should be heard until the recusal issue is resolved.
Governor Wamatangi has denied the allegations, insisting that he is being politically targeted. He has also rejected claims that he holds shareholding interests in several companies under investigation. The case is scheduled for mention on February 4, 2026.
