KENYAN OFFICIAL CONVICTED OF FRAUD, FACES 3 YEARS IN JAIL
A former high-ranking official in Kenya’s City Hall has been convicted of conspiring to defraud the government of nearly KES 18 million (approximately USD 150,000). The court sentenced him to three years in prison or a fine of KES 10.7 million (USD 88,700) to avoid imprisonment.
The Conviction
The official, Kiamba, was found guilty of embezzling public funds alongside his co-accused, former County Secretary Lilian Ndegwa, former Senior Secretary at the Department of Finance Regina Rotich, and former Head of Treasury Stephen Osiro. The four were accused of misusing public funds meant for development projects.
Evidence Gathered
The court heard that Kiamba used various accounts to receive cash deposits, which he then used to purchase properties and other assets. Investigators also found that his income was disproportionate to his declared salary.
Mentorship Played Key Role in Successful Case
The successful prosecution of the case is attributed in part to the mentorship provided by the International Centre for Asset Recovery (ICAR). The organization, which is funded by several governments and agencies, provides technical assistance to countries battling corruption and asset theft.
- ICAR’s mentorship helped investigators gather evidence of Kiamba’s financial activities
- ICAR also provided training on legislative and institutional reforms to facilitate asset recovery in Kenya
Case Highlights Importance of Financial Investigations
The Kiamba case highlights the importance of thorough financial investigations in corruption cases. Investigators used various methods, including comparing Kiamba’s known income with his assets gained during a specific period, to build a strong case against him.
- The case demonstrates the effectiveness of unexplained wealth legislation in combating corruption
- Kenya has implemented such laws to target illicit enrichment and recover stolen assets
Basel Institute on Governance Publishes Case Study
The Basel Institute on Governance has published a case study on the Kiamba case, highlighting the key lessons learned from the investigation and prosecution of the case. The institute provides technical assistance and training to countries battling corruption and asset theft.
- Visit the Basel Institute’s website at baselgovernance.org for more information on the case study or their work on asset recovery.