Bomas of Kenya’s CEO, Peter Gitaa Koria, has been granted bail amounting to Sh 1 million after refuting allegations of procurement irregularities totaling KES 8.6 million. Koria made his appearance before Milimani Anti-corruption Chief Magistrate, Thomas Nzyuki.
The accusations, according to the prosecution, spanned from December 29 to June 30, 2021. It is claimed that Koria, in his capacity as CEO and Accounting Officer of Bomas of Kenya, deliberately disregarded procurement laws.
He stands accused of conducting procurement activities without an approved budget, particularly concerning various tenders during the financial period of 2020/2021.
Specifically, Koria is alleged to have engaged in irregularities in awarding public tenders for items such as kitchenware, utensils, plates, cups, and cutlery, which were not included in Bomas of Kenya’s Budget and Procurement Plan for the fiscal year 2020/2021.
The prosecution did not contest his release on bond. Magistrate Nzyuki granted Koria a bond of KES 5 million and required one surety of similar value.
Alternatively, Koria could deposit a cash bail of KES 1 million. Additionally, the court mandated the surrender of his travel documents and warned against tampering with witnesses.
Furthermore, the court imposed restrictions on Koria, prohibiting him from leaving the jurisdiction of Kenya without prior authorization.
Nzyuki instructed the prosecution to furnish Koria with copies of the charge sheet, witness statements, and any other pertinent documentary evidence to be utilized during the trial.
