Former Samburu Governor Moses Lenolkulal convicted of corruption

Former Samburu Governor Moses Lenolkulal. [Wilberforce Okwiri, Standard]

Former Samburu Governor Moses Lenolkulal has been found guilty of corruptly receiving Sh83.3 million for supplying petroleum products to the county government.

The Milimani Anti-Corruption Court, led by Magistrate Thomas Nzyoki, determined that Lenolkulal was in conflict of interest and improperly awarded a multi-million-shilling tender for fuel supply to his petrol station.

"I find that there is overwhelming direct evidence that the governor acted in conflict of interest and acquired direct benefits. During his two terms, he actively traded with the Samburu County government until he was charged in this court," Magistrate Nzyoki ruled.

However, Lenolkulal was acquitted on charges of abuse of office.

The court also found him and his proxy, Hesbon Ndathi, guilty of fraudulent acquisition of Sh83.3 million from the county government.

Lenolkulal, through his lawyer Paul Nyamodi, has requested bail pending mitigation and sentencing.

He is the first governor to be convicted on graft charges, and his case is the first of its kind to conclude.

The court will sentence Lenolkulal and the others on Thursday, August 29 at 10:30 a.m. The magistrate has ordered that the convicts be remanded in custody, denying their request for bail pending sentencing.

Additionally, the Director of Public Prosecutions' attempt to dismiss the case against Lenolkulal was rejected by the court.