The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) has announced that Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA) Chairman Josephat Gichunge Mwirabua Kabeabea will face criminal charges following investigations into allegations that he demanded and received a bribe from a business owner.

The update was issued in a press release dated November 17, 2025, detailing the findings of a file submitted by the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC).

According to the ODPP, the EACC forwarded the inquiry file on November 14, 2025, outlining allegations that Hon. Kabeabea engaged in conduct contrary to Section 6(1)(a), as read with Section 18 of the Anti-Bribery Act, No. 47 of 2023.

The report states that the ACA chairman allegedly sought money in exchange for halting investigations into a business and preventing the arrest of its proprietor and employees.

The ODPP said investigations revealed that Kabeabea demanded a bribe of Ksh5 million and went ahead to receive Kshs. 150,000 during the transaction.

This evidence formed a crucial basis for the prosecutorial decision.

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DPP Cites Sufficient Evidence for Prosecution

The Director of Public Prosecutions conducted what the statement describes as “a comprehensive review” of the file in accordance with Section 35 of the Anti-Corruption and Economic Crimes Act, Cap 65 of the Laws of Kenya.

After examining the material submitted, the DPP concluded that “the evidence on record sufficiently discloses the essential elements of the offence of bribery.”

This finding means that the legal threshold necessary to sustain criminal charges has been met, paving the way for formal prosecution.

The offence, as referenced under the Anti-Bribery Act, criminalises soliciting or receiving an undue advantage in exchange for influencing the performance of public duties.

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Charges to Be Filed Against ACA Chairman

Following the review, the DPP directed that Hon. Kabeabea be charged with bribery as defined under the relevant provisions of the Anti-Bribery Act.

If convicted, the chairman could face substantial penalties, including fines, imprisonment, or both, as prescribed by law.

The ODPP emphasized that this decision aligns with its constitutional mandate and reiterated its position on integrity and accountability.

“The ODPP reaffirms its commitment to executing its mandate independently, fairly, and in strict accordance with the Constitution and the laws of Kenya,” the Public Affairs and Corporate Communication Division stated.

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A signboard direction of the Office of the Director Public Prosecutions. PHOTO/ ODPP X.