The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has launched investigations into bribery allegations leveled against High Court Judge Fred Nyagaka.
In a statement on Monday, September 22, JSC Secretary Winfridah Mokaya confirmed that the commission had formally taken up the matter.
“The Judicial Service Commission has noted allegations of bribery against a Judge circulating on social media. In this regard, the Commission has commenced investigations and reaffirms its unwavering commitment to uphold integrity and ensure accountability within the Judiciary, in full adherence to the rule of law,” the statement read.
The Commission assured the public that updates would be provided as investigations progress.
At the center of the storm is a damning letter dated August 25, 2025, allegedly written by businessman Ben Limo to Justice Nyagaka, demanding a refund of Ksh10 million. According to Limo, the money was paid through an intermediary in exchange for a favorable ruling.
But the ruling went against Limo — prompting him to demand a refund.
“This payment was made on the clear understanding that you would perform a specific service for me and my associates. Despite receiving the funds in full, you completely failed, refused, and/or neglected to fulfill your part of the bargain,” the letter read in part.
Limo claimed that he had initially sought to resolve the matter privately and had even been assured of an initial refund of Ksh5 million through a bank loan, but no payment was ever made.
“The continued retention of this amount, for which you have provided no value, is unacceptable and unjust. It represents the hard-earned savings of myself and my associates, and it is only fair that the same is refunded with immediate effect,” he added.
The businessman gave the judge seven days to refund the money, threatening to pursue public legal action if the demand was not met.
The allegations gained traction after lawyer Nelson Havi shared Limo’s letter on social media over the weekend, sparking widespread debate.
Meanwhile, the controversy deepened following the arrest of Standard Media Group journalist Collins Kweyu, who had been investigating the matter. Kweyu was detained in Migori County and later transferred to Nairobi’s Central Police Station before being freed on a free bond.
“I’ll be heading to Migori CID offices on Wednesday next week where the complaint originated. They are still holding my phone, but I will not be cowed by this experience — the work I do must continue,” Kweyu said.
The unfolding saga has once again thrust the Judiciary into the spotlight, with Kenyans keenly awaiting the outcome of the JSC probe and whether Justice Nyagaka will face formal disciplinary or criminal action.
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