In light of his suspected involvement in a Ksh. 1.3 billion graft investigation, the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has obtained orders to freeze assets valued at Ksh. 28.9 million belonging to former Kakamega Governor Wycliffe Oparanya.

The High Court approved the asset freeze for the anti-graft body on Thursday, subject to the conclusion of ongoing investigations.

Judge Esther Maina’s orders forbade Oparanya, his affiliated private companies, their representatives, attendants, or any other individuals from removing, transferring, or utilizing the frozen funds in any manner for the following six months.

EACC detectives had previously questioned Oparanya and his spouses in August regarding the purported Ksh. 1.3 billion embezzlement that took place during his two terms as governor of Kakamega.

According to investigations, during Oparanya’s administration, public funds were obtained illegally through proxies and associates.

According to reports, two businesses hired by the County Government of Kakamega to buy a home in Karen, Nairobi, Sesela Resources Limited and Sabema International Limited, channeled some of the frozen funds.

The Local Authorities Pension Trust Registered Trustees sold the home, known as Olorua Ridge Development, for Ksh.89 million (LAPTRUST).

After carrying out exhaustive investigations into all reported offenses, EACC had previously sent the ex-governor’s file to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) for appropriate action.

The scheduled date of the matter’s mention is June 11, 2024.