EACC Denies Arrest of Gachagua Lawyer Over Sh24.5 Million Bribery

• EACC denied reports of arresting a lawyer representing former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua over an alleged Sh24.5 million bribery scheme.
• The commission clarified that no such operation took place, urging Kenyans not to rely on social media posts claiming otherwise.
• The allegations carry significant political implications, particularly given the courts' interpretation of the Constitution could affect the eligibility of impeached officials seeking elective office.

However, EACC swiftly clarified that no such operation took place and urged Kenyans not to rely on the posts.

A video and social media posts claiming to show the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) arresting a lawyer representing former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua sparked widespread attention. The reports alleged that the lawyer was being investigated over a Sh24.5 million bribe intended to influence proceedings before the Supreme Court, particularly in a case concerning the eligibility of impeached public officials to contest elective office. However, EACC swiftly clarified that no such operation took place and urged Kenyans not to rely on the posts. The commission's statement came as the country remains abuzz with heightened political and legal interest in a constitutional petition before the Supreme Court seeking clarity on whether public officials removed from office through impeachment can subsequently seek elective office.

The EACC's clarification has significant implications for lawyers representing public officials, who must now advise their clients on the potential risks of influencing court proceedings. The commission's commitment to providing timely and accurate information to the public is crucial in maintaining trust in its investigations and operations. In recent years, EACC has documented numerous bribery investigations involving law enforcement officers, county officials, and members of the legal and judicial sectors. This includes cases where advocates have been arrested for alleged bribery, such as a Kisumu-based High Court advocate and court assistant who were apprehended in June 2024 over allegations of soliciting a bribe in the name of a judge.

The latest incident highlights the need for Kenyans to be cautious when consuming information on social media, particularly regarding sensitive topics like corruption and bribery. The EACC's clarification also underscores its commitment to upholding the law and ensuring that those involved in corrupt activities are held accountable. As the country approaches the 2027 General Election, the courts' interpretation of the Constitution will have far-reaching implications for public officials seeking elective office. The allegations of an attempt to influence the Supreme Court therefore carry significant political implications, particularly given Gachagua's central role in the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) and his potential impact on the election.

Lawyers representing public officials should be aware that the EACC has clarified that no arrest was made in this case, but they may still need to advise clients on the implications of bribery allegations and the potential risks of influencing court proceedings.

Source: Original reporting via [Source]