DCI investigators have recommended prosecution of Finance Cabinet Secretary Henry Rotich over allegations of mismanaging Sh21 billion allocated for the Arror and Kimwarer dams, according to sources familiar with the inquiry.
The Serious Crime Unit is probing the projects, with investigators focusing on the Sh21 billion Treasury released for construction. A senior police official, speaking anonymously, stated the CS faces charges for failing to protect public funds.
Rotich was questioned for a second consecutive day by DCI officers, who examined risks of companies receiving the funds collapsing. Investigators sought assurance that public money would not be lost if contractors faced financial difficulties.
The CS, accompanied by lawyer Katwa Kigen, appeared at DCI headquarters on Kiambu Road. Next week, officials from the Ministry of Agriculture will also be questioned about the projects.
Rotich previously defended the advance payment of Sh4.3 billion to Italian contractor SACE under the Public Procurement and Disposal Act 2015. He claimed the payment, part of a loan facility, was lawful and intended to initiate project implementation.
DCI has summoned 107 companies, including 27 directors, to account for payments received for the Elgeyo Marakwet county projects. Treasury Principal Secretary Kamau Thugge has also provided statements to investigators.
