Embakasi North MP James Gakuya is currently facing a Sh40 million graft case, with the court scheduled to issue fresh directions on how the hearing will proceed. Gakuya, along with co-accused Cleophas Omariba Oyaro, Leah Waithera Guchu, and Richard Mwangi Chuchu, is charged with conflict of interest and misappropriation of Constituency Development Fund (CDF) resources. The charges allege that they awarded road construction tenders to companies linked to Gakuya, resulting in the fraudulent acquisition of public property. The case is being heard by Anti-Corruption Court magistrate Isabella Barasa.

This legal proceeding stems from events dating back to 2018 when Gakuya and his co-accused were charged with four counts of conflict of interest. The allegations center around the awarding of tenders for road construction to companies associated with Gakuya, leading to the misappropriation of CDF funds. The charges include fraudulent acquisition of public property, conflict of interest, conspiracy to defraud, and willful failure to adhere to procurement and disposal laws.

The case has attracted significant legal attention, with prominent criminal defense lawyer Wandugi Kirathe among those representing Gakuya. Kirathe has been involved in several high-profile cases, including representing clients charged with fraud and murder. His role in Gakuya’s defense highlights the case’s prominence in Kenya’s legal landscape.