Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya has been granted a temporary reprieve after the High Court issued orders suspending criminal proceedings against him, pending the outcome of a constitutional petition he filed.

In a ruling delivered by Justice Bahati Mwamuye, the court temporarily halted the prosecution tied to alleged procurement irregularities and abuse of office brought forward by the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC).

According to court filings, Natembeya argues that the charges against him are not only procedurally flawed but also infringe on his constitutional rights, prompting him to seek judicial intervention before the trial proceeds.

Justice Mwamuye further ordered that all relevant documents, including the petition, application, and interim court orders, be served to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) by June 9, 2025.

The ruling effectively puts the brakes on what could have been a politically charged legal battle, coming as Natembeya continues to maintain his innocence while in office.

Legal experts suggest that this case could set a precedent on how politically exposed individuals navigate allegations involving public procurement and ethical misconduct, especially when judicial intervention is sought before formal prosecution begins.

The matter now awaits a full hearing, where the court will decide whether the petition holds sufficient ground to quash or permanently halt the charges. Until then, the governor remains in office and unprosecuted—at least for now.