Judge blocks graft case against Isiolo Governor Doyo

Isiolo Governor Godana Doyo on Tuesday became the latest county boss to get a court order stopping his prosecution.

Director of Public Prosecutions Keriako Tobiko had on Friday last week approved recommendations by the anti-graft agency to have the governor and three county officials prosecuted over allegations they had irregularly passed a law on spending last December.

The three county officials include Mr David Lemantile (deputy speaker), Mr Boru Adan Jirima (assistant clerk of the assembly) and Mr Abdi Sora (finance committee chair).

Mr Doyo moved to court on Tuesday and obtained orders stopping their prosecution until a case filed challenging the DPP’s action is heard and determined.

They have alleged ulterior motives in the decision made to prosecute them.

Mr Justice Francis Gikonyo directed the police not to arrest or detain the governor, Mr Lemantile, Mr Adan and Mr Sora within the next 30 days. He also directed the parties to file their papers within the next 21 days.

“The Attorney-General shall also be served with the petition by end of day and shall also file and serve response to the petition within 21 days,” Mr Justice Gikonyo said, adding that the case will be mentioned on December 17.

STALLING PROSECUTION

Other governors who have in the past attempted to obtain orders barring their prosecution include Mr Mwangi Wa Iria (Murang’a), Mr Nathif Jama (Garissa), Dr Alfred Mutua (Machakos) and Mr Wycliffe Oparanya (Kakamega).

Mr Wa Iria had been accused of giving false information to the EACC prior to the 2013 polls.

Mr Jama stopped his prosecution over procurement of ambulances.

Dr Mutua was to be charged in connection with alleged irregular procurement of vehicles, while Mr Oparanya was alleged to have incited mourners.