EACC recovers Ksh10.9 million in Homabay corruption crackdown

The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission has won a significant victory in its ongoing fight against graft, securing a court order for the recovery of KSh 10,991,712 in salaries irregularly paid to a former senior county health official.

In a judgment delivered on 13 March 2026 at the Milimani Anti-Corruption Court, Justice B.M. Musyoki directed Mr Odhiambo Ottoman Adel Walter to refund the full amount he received from the County Government of Homa Bay between June 2016 and August 2021.

The judge described the conduct as both unlawful and unethical, stressing that public officers must not draw salaries from two government institutions simultaneously, as it undermines service delivery to citizens.

Investigations by the EACC revealed that Mr Odhiambo held a permanent and pensionable position as Deputy Director of Health-Preventive and Promotive at Homa Bay County while serving in a similar role at the Kenya Medical Training College in Kisumu County during the same period.

The EACC filed the recovery suit on 12 June 2024, seeking a declaration that the salaries paid by Homa Bay County were irregularly acquired due to the clear conflict of interest.

This case forms part of broader EACC efforts to address dual employment and abuse of public resources across Kenyan counties. Similar recoveries have been recorded in recent years, including a KSh5.8 million refund ordered against another former Homa Bay medical officer in 2025.

Court sets 90-day repayment deadline

Justice Musyoki ordered Mr Odhiambo to repay the KSh 10,991,712 within 90 days. Failure to comply will allow the EACC to execute the decree and attach his assets if necessary.

An EACC spokesperson welcomed the ruling, stating: “This recovery underscores our unwavering commitment to accountability. Public resources must serve Kenyans, not enrich individuals who exploit their positions.”

The EACC has urged all public officers to uphold integrity and avoid actions that compromise efficient service delivery.

The judgment comes as the EACC ramps up asset recovery and anti-graft operations nationwide. In the 2024/2025 financial year, the EACC recovered billions in illicit assets while filing numerous suits targeting unexplained wealth and irregular payments.

Homa Bay County has faced multiple scrutiny cases in recent times, reflecting wider challenges in devolved governance.

Public officers and citizens alike are encouraged to report suspected corruption through EACC channels. The EACC reiterated its determination to pursue cases at all levels of government without fear or favor.

This latest success sends a strong message: dual employment and irregular salary claims will not be tolerated.