Three high-ranking officials of the National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) have appeared in court, facing charges related to alleged fraud involving the sale of fertilizers meant for farmers.
NCPB Managing Director Joseph Muna Kimote, Corporate Secretary John Kiplangat Ngetich, and General Marketing Manager John Mbaya Matiri have all pleaded not guilty to accusations of conspiring to defraud farmers by selling over 139,000 bags of fertilizer, valued at over KES 209 million, under false pretences.
The prosecution has argued against granting them bail, citing ongoing investigations and concerns about potential interference with witnesses or evidence tampering.
They particularly highlight the risk posed by the accused’s subordinates, whom they fear may be influenced by the defendants.
Additionally, the court was informed that one of the accused persons, Joseph Kariuki Kimani, remains at large, heightening concerns about potential flight from justice.
However, the defense team, led by lawyers Katwa Kigen, Danstan Omari, Sam Nyaberi, and Shadrack Wamboi, has vehemently opposed the prosecution’s stance.
They argue that investigations have been completed, as indicated by a press release from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), and have been ongoing for several months. Moreover, they contend that there is no concrete evidence suggesting that the accused individuals intend to evade court proceedings.
Furthermore, the defence emphasizes the professional and social standing of the accused, highlighting their roles as public officers and their significant responsibilities within their respective spheres. They refute claims of flight risk, asserting that the accused have deep roots in the community and no evidence has been presented to suggest otherwise.
The courtroom proceedings underscore the gravity of the allegations and the complexities surrounding the case, which has attracted considerable public attention due to its implications for agricultural policy and public trust.
