EACC probes Sh615m wealth linked to Kakamega cleaning official

Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission CEO Twalib Mbarak. [Collins Oduor, Standard]

The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) is investigating the alleged acquisition of over Sh615 million in unexplained wealth by Kakamega County Head of Cleaning Services, John Koveti Lumula.

 The inquiry is part of a broader crackdown on public officials suspected of accumulating assets through corrupt practices.

In a statement on Sunday, September 29, EACC Spokesperson Eric Ngumbi said Lumula’s arrest earlier this week followed a raid on his home and office.

Lumula is accused of acquiring the wealth through kickbacks during his tenure in the Procurement Department before his transfer to the Cleaning Services Department.

 According to Ngumbi, the Commission believes Lumula received these kickbacks from suppliers and contractors, leading to the accumulation of the suspicious assets now under investigation.

“Lumula’s assets, including properties and vehicles, are under investigation for possible forfeiture as they are believed to have been corruptly acquired,” said Ngumbi.

Lumula was taken to the EACC Bungoma Regional Offices for questioning following the raid, where he recorded a statement.

Among the assets under scrutiny is a private school, West Bridge Elite School in Eregi, worth Sh200 million, which is operated by his spouse, Roseline Khadambi Khovoshi.

Additional properties include several hotels, residential buildings, commercial properties and six high-end vehicles.

The Commission is also investigating numerous parcels of prime land in different parts of the country which are yet to be valued.

The list of assets includes Lexas Restaurant, Yolo Launch & Grill, Caravan Palace Hotel, two residential buildings in Shijiko, South Ikolomani and six high-end vehicles.