By Mumo Judah
June 8, 2026
The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has arrested and arraigned a clerical officer attached to the Uasin Gishu Lands Office over allegations of soliciting and receiving a bribe to facilitate a land subdivision process.
The suspect, identified as Noah Kipkemboi Rotich, appeared in court on Monday, June 8, 2026, where he denied charges brought against him under the Bribery Act, 2016. The court subsequently released him on a cash bail of KSh30,000 or an alternative bond of KSh100,000 pending the hearing and determination of the case.
According to the anti-graft agency, Rotich allegedly demanded KSh100,000 from a member of the public in exchange for facilitating and expediting the subdivision of a parcel of land. The complainant is said to have reported the matter to the EACC after the officer allegedly made the demand and received an initial partial payment.
The commission launched investigations into the allegations, leading to the suspect’s arrest after detectives gathered evidence linking him to the alleged offence. Upon completion of investigations, the Director of Public Prosecutions approved charges against the officer, paving the way for his arraignment.
The case highlights persistent concerns over corruption within land registries, which have for years been among the public institutions frequently accused of delays, extortion and irregular practices affecting land transactions. Stakeholders in the property sector have repeatedly called for greater transparency and digitization of land services to curb opportunities for graft.
In recent years, the EACC has intensified operations targeting corrupt practices within public offices, particularly in land administration, county governments and licensing agencies. The commission says bribery and abuse of office continue to undermine efficient service delivery and erode public confidence in government institutions.
The anti-graft agency has also been encouraging members of the public to report corruption cases and resist demands for illegal payments by public officers. Several officials across the country have been prosecuted in recent months as part of an ongoing campaign to strengthen integrity and accountability in public service.
Rotich’s case now proceeds to the next stage of the judicial process, with prosecutors expected to present evidence supporting the charges against him. If convicted, he could face penalties provided for under the Bribery Act, which criminalizes both the solicitation and receipt of bribes by public officials.
The latest arrest underscores the government’s renewed push to clean up public institutions and enhance transparency in critical sectors such as land administration, which plays a key role in property ownership and economic development.
