County Tourism Executive Peter Leshakwet has been arrested as anti-graft agents began investigations into corruption allegations.
Mr Leshakwet was arrested on Thursday evening by Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) officers in Maralal town.
He is being investigated for abuse of office in a case where a company is said to have been irregularly awarded a tender to run Maralal safari lodge.
Investigators are probing whether Leshakwet flouted procurement laws as the contract was not placed through a pre-qualification process.
County Police Commander Alfred Agengo said EACC recommended Leshakwet's arrest
READ MORE
Elders alarmed as youth in Vihiga tend to discard rich local culture
World beaters excited as Kenya launches inaugural Mountain and Trail series
Rising tourist numbers to spur hospitality sector construction boom