Former Samburu Governor Moses Lenolkulal was found guilty on Wednesday for corruptly obtaining Sh83 million through the supply of petroleum products to the county government while he was in office. Lenolkulal, along with 11 others, were convicted of abusing authority by unlawfully benefiting himself and others through fraudulent dealings.
The case, overseen by Trial Magistrate Thomas Nzyoki, revealed that the prosecution presented clear evidence showing that Lenolkulal and his associate, Hesbon Ndathi, were the main beneficiaries of the misappropriated county funds. Magistrate Nzyoki underscored that Lenolkulal had a significant conflict of interest, which severely compromised his integrity as governor.
The court's decision was based on payment vouchers and Local Purchase Orders that proved Lenolkulal had engaged in direct business transactions with the county government through his company, Oryx Service Station. Magistrate Nzyoki stressed that public officers are required to uphold principles of good governance and avoid any conflicts of interest, which Lenolkulal failed to do.
The county secretary, also implicated in the case, was criticized for his involvement in the fraudulent activities. The magistrate pointed out that the county secretary had knowingly signed and approved payments to Oryx Service Station, despite being fully aware that Lenolkulal owned the company.
Prosecution counsel Wesley Namache expressed satisfaction with the ruling, noting the overwhelming evidence against Lenolkulal and his co-defendants. However, defense advocate Paul Nyamodi requested that the court allow the convicted individuals to remain out on bail pending mitigation and sentencing.
