MP Didmus Barasa Summoned by EACC Over Ksh. 2 Million Fraud Allegation

The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has summoned Kimilili MP Didmus Barasa to answer allegations of defrauding a businesswoman of Ksh. 2 million. The EACC has scheduled the session for Tuesday, August 27, 2024, at Integrity Centre in Nairobi.

Barasa is accused of soliciting the money with promises of securing lucrative government tenders for the businesswoman. However, after receiving the funds, Barasa reportedly cut off communication, leaving the woman without the promised tenders or any recourse.

In a letter dated August 21, 2024, the EACC pointed out that Barasa failed to attend a prior summons on August 14, 2024, where he was to record a statement. "The commission invited you for an interview and statement recording at Integrity Centre Nairobi on August 14, 2024; however, you did not attend," the letter reads.

The EACC emphasized that Barasa must now appear on August 27 at 9:00 a.m., warning that failure to do so could result in the inquiry proceeding without his input, potentially leading to serious consequences.

MP Didmus Barasa Summoned by EACC Over Ksh. 2 Million Fraud Allegation

The commission alleges that Barasa, leveraging his position as chairperson of the Parliamentary Roads Committee, assured the businesswoman of road construction tenders in exchange for the Ksh. 2 million, which he termed as “a show of commitment and readiness to receiving the tenders.” The woman deposited the money into Barasa's bank account on December 13, 2023, only to find that no tenders had been advertised as promised.

Barasa has since denied the allegations, claiming that the money was a soft loan from a fellow politician who had unsuccessfully run for governor. "The deposit of Ksh. 2,000,000 into my Cooperative Bank account was a soft loan from the politician who contested for governor," Barasa stated, arguing that the EACC was overreaching by involving itself in what he described as a civil dispute.

Barasa further criticized the commission's actions as an abuse of power and indicated that he would not attend the summons in person but would instead send his lawyer. He maintained that the documentation provided supports his claim and questioned the EACC's involvement in interpreting the reasons behind the financial transaction.

The EACC, however, seems determined to pursue the matter, leaving the fate of the MP hanging in the balance as the inquiry continues.