High Court blocks DCI from arresting Governor Badilisha after weeks of attempts

NAIROBI, Kenya - The High Court has prevented the Director of Criminal Investigations (DCI) and other officials from arresting or detaining Nyandarua Governor Kiarie Badilisha, who is currently under investigation by both the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) and the DCI. On August 18, Justice C.W. Githua heard Badilisha's plea for protection and granted him anticipatory bail.

The court deemed the application urgent, and plans to serve the court order on the respondents within seven days. A mention for further direction has been set for September 3, 2026. Until then, the DCI and the National Police Service are barred from arresting or detaining Badilisha at any police station. This development follows weeks of reported attempts to arrest the governor and shortly after his switch from the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) to the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP).

The defection was announced alongside the entire Nyandarua County Assembly leadership, with DCP leader Rigathi Gachagua praising the move as a boost for the party ahead of the 2027 General Election. Gachagua described the defection as part of a "national liberation movement" and assured the governor and MCAs of the party's commitment to free and fair primaries for the upcoming elections.