A High Court Judge has withdrawn from a Ksh.3 billion dispute between Kenya Breweries Limited (KBL) and JILK Construction Company Limited, citing a potential conflict of interest. The case, which revolves around arbitration proceedings and involves allegations of corruption, has taken a new turn with the judge's recusal and the upcoming divestment of Diageo PLC from the Kenyan market.

• High Court Judge Freda Mugambi recused herself from the case due to concerns about impartiality.
• The dispute centers on a Ksh.3 billion arbitration sought by JILK Construction Company Limited against KBL.
• Diageo PLC, which holds a majority stake in KBL's parent company, is set to divest from Kenya by July 31, 2026, selling its shares to Asahi Group Holdings.
• KBL alleges corruption and collusion between the arbitrator and JILK's chief executive, Sammy Maina Kamau.
• The case will be reassigned by the Principal Judge of the Commercial Division on February 19, 2026.