In courts: Judgement expected in Governor Natembeya's petition challenging his graft proceedings

The High Court is set to deliver its final verdict on Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya, following the temporary suspension of anti-corruption proceedings against him. 

The case stems from his move to the High Court, where he secured interim orders after filing a constitutional petition challenging the legality of the charges. 

Governor Natembeya had been charged with conflict of interest and the unlawful acquisition of public property.

Justice Bahati Mwamuye issued a conservatory order staying the criminal proceedings until the petition is heard and determined, according to court documents.

“Pending the inter partes hearing and determination of the petitioner/applicant's Notice of Motion Application dated JUne 5, 2025, a conservatory order be and is hereby issued staying the criminal proceedings in Nairobi, Milimani Chief Magistrates' Anti-Corruption Case Number E024 of 2025, Republic versus George Natembeya & Anor,” read part of Justice Mwamuye’s ruling.

This development came amid notable procedural delays in the anti-graft case at the time.

During an earlier hearing, State Prosecutor Victor Owiti informed the court that the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) had yet to obtain crucial documents from various government offices necessary for the prosecution.

The defence criticised the EACC for failing to comply with court orders and contributing to delays, especially given the high-profile nature of the case and the public interest surrounding Governor Natembeya’s arrest.

Magistrate Zipporah Gachana expressed concern over the continued delays and directed the prosecution to fully comply with prior court orders by submitting all necessary documents and witness statements.

Mbijiwe disappearance case

Elsewhere, the case involving security analyst and former military officer Mwenda Mbijiwe, who went missing in June 2021, is set to resume today.

His disappearance remains unresolved.

The High Court in Nairobi had earlier issued orders for the Inspector General of Police and the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) to produce him in court.

In his orders, Justice Martin Muya compelled the two to within 7 days produce Mbijiwe dead or alive, following an urgent application filed by his mother Jane Gatwiri, who sought the court’s intervention in compelling the government to immediately and unconditionally set him free.

City lawyer Evans Ondieki broke into tears outside the Milimani Law Courts on Wednesday, December 3, as he spoke about his unresolved disappearance.

Ondieki questioned why authorities want to begin an inquest while offering no clarity on the circumstances surrounding Mbijiwe’s disappearance more than four years ago.

Mbijiwe’s mother, Jane Gatwiri, also addressed journalists.

She accused several prominent individuals of orchestrating false allegations against her son before his disappearance.

“I want to thank God, my counsel and my family for their support. I want to address DCI Kenyatta, the former governor of Meru and other prominent people from Meru who sat down and put false allegations upon my son,” she said.