Former Cabinet Secretary Raphael Tuju has petitioned Chief Justice Martha Koome, alleging that brokers arrested at his home demanded a KSh 10 million bribe purportedly on behalf of High Court Judge Josephine Wayua Wambua Mong’are.
The alleged bribe was reportedly meant to influence a ruling in Tuju’s favor in his long-running property dispute with the East African Development Bank (EADB).
The dispute traces back to a $15 million loan Tuju secured in 2015 using his Karen properties as collateral. Following years of litigation, courts have consistently ruled in favor of EADB, culminating in a March 9 decision dismissing Tuju’s latest suit and paving the way for the auction of his properties.
According to Tuju’s petition, the individuals approached him at his residence, claiming they could secure a favorable outcome if he paid the demanded amount. Tuju says he refused the offer and immediately reported the matter to authorities.
The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) confirmed the arrest of four suspects in connection with the alleged bribery attempt. Among those detained were former High Court Judge Joseph Mutava and lawyer Wachira Kimani. The suspects were later released on bail as investigations continue.
Tuju’s complaint has intensified scrutiny around judicial integrity and the handling of high-profile commercial disputes. The former minister has faced repeated confrontations with auctioneers as the sale of his Karen properties looms, following multiple failed appeals to halt the enforcement of the EADB loan recovery.
Chief Justice Koome is expected to review the petition and determine whether the allegations warrant further judicial inquiry or disciplinary action. The Judiciary and EACC have yet to issue detailed statements on the ongoing investigation.
