The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) has approved bribery charges against Senior Principal Magistrate Martin Kinyua Mutegi and a senior probation officer at Kangema Law Courts.

The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) arrested Magistrate Mutegi and Julius Irungu Njogu, a senior probation officer, on July 21 during a targeted anti-corruption operation.

Evidence Review and Charges

Following the EACC's preliminary investigations, the findings were submitted to the ODPP. Director of Public Prosecutions Renson Igonga conducted an independent review and determined there was sufficient evidence to charge both officials under the Anti-Bribery Act.

The charges relate to the offence of receiving a bribe, contrary to Section 6(1) read with Section 18(1) of the Anti-Bribery Act, which criminalizes corrupt payments solicited or accepted by public officers in connection with their duties.

Next Steps

  • The DPP has ordered the immediate arraignment of both suspects before a court with jurisdiction.
  • The case underscores ongoing efforts by Kenyan authorities to combat corruption within the judiciary and public service.