The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has arrested Nyamira County Assembly Clerk Duke Simeon Onyari over alleged irregularities in a tender for the construction of an office block at the assembly.

In a statement, the commission said the arrest is linked to investigations into Tender No. CAN/T/027/2017-2021, which was awarded to Jetta Builders Ltd despite concerns that the company may not have been the lowest evaluated bidder.

Under public procurement rules, contracting entities are expected to award tenders to bidders who meet technical requirements while also offering the most cost-effective price to taxpayers.

EACC investigators allege that the disputed award resulted in an unlawful financial advantage of Ksh.30,187,396 to the contractor, leading to a corresponding loss of public funds.

After completing its probe, the anti-graft agency submitted the case file to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), who reviewed the evidence and approved charges against six individuals.

Those expected to face prosecution include Deputy Clerk and Director of Finance and Accounts Leonard Kevin Nyamasege; Deputy Clerk and Director of Legislative, Legal Procedure and Committee Services David Nyarango Ombego; Director of Monitoring and Evaluation Joyce Onyiego; and infrastructure officers Eric Ongúti Ayuka and Simon Ondari Ogecha, alongside Onyari.

The Clerk was taken to the EACC South Nyanza Regional Office in Kisii for processing and recording of statements ahead of his court appearance.

The commission has also directed the other suspects to present themselves at the same office or any nearest EACC station to facilitate further action.

“The Commission reiterates its commitment to safeguarding public resources and holding accountable all persons involved in corruption and economic crimes,”EACC said

They are set to face multiple charges, including abuse of office, failure to comply with public finance laws, and negligence in official duties.