The Anti-Corruption Court has directed the prosecution to supply the defence with all disclosure materials in the corruption case against Bomet Governor Hillary Barchok.
During a mention of the matter, the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) sought 30 days to avail documentary evidence intended for trial.
Although concerned about the delay, the defence agreed to the extension but accused the prosecution of being unprepared. Lawyer Ooge, appearing for one of the accused, told the court that despite multiple advocates representing their client, only a single set of documents would be necessary.
On his part, Julius Anyoka, representing the second accused, argued that the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) was deliberately stalling the proceedings. He reminded the court that Article 50 of the Constitution guarantees the accused the right to access all evidence the prosecution intends to rely on. Anyoka also emphasized that his client, a farmer, lacks reliable internet access and would therefore require physical copies of the documents.
The case will be mentioned again on October 28 to confirm compliance.
Governor Barchok and his co-accused, Evans Kipkoech Korir, face charges of conflict of interest, money laundering, and acquisition of proceeds of crime.
The governor was arraigned in early September and accused of irregularly benefiting from contracts awarded by the Bomet County Government to Chemasus Construction Limited.
According to investigators, between November 2019 and March 2021, Barchok allegedly gained an indirect private benefit of KSh 2 million through road maintenance and equipment hire contracts. The money was reportedly deposited into his Equity Bank account by Chemasus Construction.
