The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) has sent a prosecutor on compulsory leave with immediate effect.
In a statement, the ODPP indicated that the move was in response to reports on social media about a senior prosecutor allegedly soliciting a bribe of Ksh50,000 from a businessman.
The bribe was reportedly offered in exchange for expediting a court case.
Consequently, the prosecutor will remain on leave as internal investigations are launched to ascertain the veracity of the claims.
“The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has, therefore, directed that the affected officer proceeds on compulsory leave with immediate effect as per the ODPP Human Resource Policies and Procedures manual 2022, pending internal investigations which have commenced forthwith,” stated ODPP.
Further, the ODPP has committed to cooperating fully with the relevant investigative agencies to ensure that the matter is thoroughly examined.
The Office has also assured the public that appropriate action will be taken following the outcome of these investigations, including the possibility of prosecution if the allegations are substantiated.
Also Read: Judiciary Responds to Being Ranked Most Corrupt Institution
EACC Arrest the Prosecutor
Earlier, the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) reported that it had arrested Japheth Ouko Mayore Isaboke, the Principal Prosecution Counsel in charge of ODPP Kilgoris.
The prosecutor was arrested on the same charges. However, the bribe was negotiated downwards to Ksh40,000.
“The complainant refused to pay the bribe and instead reported the matter to the EACC. The Commission conducted an operation that led to the arrest of the suspect on Sunday, February 16, 2025, while receiving Ksh20,000 as part of the bribe,” stated EACC.
However, the prosecutor was later released on a cash bail of Ksh30,000.
“He was held at Kisii Police Station and later released on Kes30,000 cash bail pending the finalization of the investigation,” added the statement.
Also Read: EACC Launches Corruption Probe into Judiciary After Martha Koome Letter
EACC Launches Probe into Judiciary
On February 12, the judiciary highlighted key anti-corruption measures undertaken in recent years, including a Judiciary Ombudsman tasked with handling public complaints.
It also noted that the integrity committees established in courts across the country to uphold ethical standards.
Digital reforms, such as e-filing, virtual courts, and online payment processing, aimed at enhancing efficiency and reducing opportunities for corruption were also highlighted.
Chief Justice Martha Koome invited EACC Chairperson David Oginde to investigate the Judiciary, particularly three judicial service stations flagged for corruption by Kenyans.
The investigation includes petitions accusing several Supreme Court judges of corruption.
Oginde confirmed that the Commission was expanding the probe to the entire Judiciary.
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