The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has summoned Kimilili Member of Parliament Didmus Barasa to respond to bribery allegations leveled against him. The MP has been ordered to appear at the EACC headquarters on Tuesday, August 27, after failing to honor the commission’s first summons.
In a statement released by the EACC, Barasa was initially required to appear before the commission on August 14, 2024, to provide a statement regarding the bribery accusations. However, Barasa did not show up, prompting the commission to issue a second summons.
Second Chance to Respond
"The Commission hereby accords you a second opportunity to come and respond to the allegations of bribery made against you," the EACC said in a formal statement. Barasa has been instructed to present himself at Integrity Centre, Nairobi, at 9:00 AM on August 27.
The EACC emphasized that if Barasa fails to appear again, the inquiry will proceed without further reference to him, a move that could complicate his legal standing in the case.
Unclear Allegations
As of the time of publication, it remains unclear which specific bribery allegations the EACC is investigating. Despite the ambiguity surrounding the case, the summons reflects the Commission's intent to move forward with its inquiry.
Barasa’s failure to honor the initial summons has already raised eyebrows, and the second invitation puts further pressure on the MP to engage with the legal process. The EACC remains firm in its warning that should Barasa continue to be non-compliant, the inquiry will advance without his input.
Barasa’s upcoming appearance before the EACC will likely shed more light on the nature of the bribery allegations and could have significant political and legal implications for the Kimilili MP.