By Our Reporter
The Kenya Wildlife Service has raised alarm over an attempted extortion scheme and abuse of judicial processes involving former Bunge La Mwananchi president, Mr Francis Awino.
In a statement issued in Nairobi on January 15, 2026, the Service said Mr Awino who also claims to be a blogger, presented himself to KWS officials with court documents in which he is listed as the petitioner.
According to KWS, preliminary findings and ongoing inquiries indicate that Mr Awino allegedly sought to use judicial proceedings and the threat of negative publicity to intimidate, blackmail and extort the Office of the Director General. The Service noted that such conduct, if proven, would be unlawful and contrary to national values and principles of governance, including integrity, accountability and the rule of law as outlined in Article 10 of the Constitution of Kenya, 2010.
Following the alleged incident, the matter was reported to relevant law enforcement agencies, leading to Mr Awino’s arrest. He has since been arraigned before the JKIA Law Court, where he appeared before Magistrate Njeri Thuku. The case is now pending further directions from the court.
KWS stated that it respects the independence of the Judiciary and will not comment on the merits of a matter that is currently before court.
The Service further emphasized that while Article 48 of the Constitution guarantees every person the right of access to justice, that right must be exercised in good faith. It warned that using court processes, or the threat of litigation, for purposes such as blackmail, harassment or personal gain amounts to an abuse of the judicial system and undermines the administration of justice.
KWS also expressed concern over indications that Mr Awino may be linked to a coordinated group allegedly targeting public and private sector officers through intimidation, vexatious litigation and orchestrated public campaigns aimed at unlawfully obtaining financial or other benefits.
Reaffirming its stance, the Service said it would not yield to intimidation or unlawful pressure. It underscored its commitment to protecting public institutions and upholding the rule of law in line with its constitutional and statutory mandate under the Wildlife Conservation and Management Act, Cap 376.
The Kenya Wildlife Service cautioned members of the public that misuse of judicial processes, extortion, intimidation and cyber harassment are criminal offences under Kenyan law and will be addressed firmly and lawfully through due process.
The Service reiterated its commitment to constitutionalism, integrity, transparency and respect for the rule of law.
