The High Court in Nairobi has dismissed a petition by lawyer Joseph Kimani Wachira seeking to stop investigations and prosecution over allegations that he solicited money to influence a judge’s decision in a commercial dispute involving former Cabinet Secretary Raphael Tuju.

In a judgment delivered on October 7, 2026, Justice Joseph Kipkoech Biomdo rejected Wachira’s application and lifted the temporary orders that had restricted further action in the case.

The decision allows the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) to re-arrest and prosecute the lawyer over the allegations.

The investigation centres on claims that Wachira, Okiri Thomas Awili and the late former Justice Joseph Mutava sought Sh10 million from Tuju.

According to investigators, the money was allegedly intended to influence a sitting High Court judge to deliver a favourable ruling in a dispute involving Dari Ltd, Tuju and Garam Investment Auctioneers, among other parties.

Wachira was arrested during an EACC operation in Karen on March 9, 2026. The suspects were reportedly apprehended at Entim Sidai Wellness Sanctuary while receiving Sh1 million, which investigators linked to the alleged transaction.

The commission pursued investigations into the suspected bribery arrangement, while Wachira challenged the process in court, seeking to have further action stopped.

However, Justice Biomdo found that the EACC had acted within its legal mandate when conducting the investigations.

The court also found no established illegality or violation of constitutional rights that would warrant its intervention.

By lifting the interim orders, the court has removed the temporary restrictions that had prevented the commission from taking further action against Wachira.

The ruling clears the way for the EACC to proceed with its intended prosecution, although the allegations must still be determined through the judicial process.

The commission said it remained committed to fighting bribery and corruption and improving the delivery of public services.

Wachira has not been convicted in the case and remains entitled to defend himself against the allegations in court.