Gachagua: This is My Defense
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has denied allegations of unlawfully enriching himself, defying presidential directives, and interfering with state tenders.
DP Gachagua refuted claims that he amassed Sh5.2 billion through 22 companies linked to him and his associates.
He cited assets like Vipingo Beach Resort Ltd and Olive Gardens, clarifying that they belonged to the estate of his late brother, former Nyeri governor Nderitu Gachagua, who passed away in 2017.
In a televised address, Gachagua confirmed his scheduled appearance before the National Assembly at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, stating, “I will be available to present my case for two hours.”
“Kenyans elected their leaders, and 7.2 million chose President Ruto and me. They deserve to hear my response to these allegations firsthand,” Gachagua said in his address.
He dismissed the accusations as baseless, claiming they were part of a scheme to force him out of office. “Kenyans have the right to hear my response,” he added.
Gachagua criticized the public participation process, calling it inadequate. He argued that his response wasn’t included and cited natural justice, stating, “No man should be condemned unheard.” His lawyers will challenge the process.
The allegations are part of an impeachment motion filed by Kibwezi West MP Mwengi Mutuse, citing gross misconduct and violation of the constitution and national laws.
Gachagua provided a detailed account of each company, emphasizing that some had ceased operations, while others were non-profit entities.
He reiterated his commitment to humane evictions during the Kenya Kwanza campaign and supported the eviction of people along the Nairobi River as per Cabinet decisions, while also demanding fair compensation.
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Gachagua dismissed claims that he was involved in the Sh3.7 billion mosquito net procurement, saying neither he nor his proxies were linked to the tender.
He also denied allegations of excessive renovation expenses for his residences in Nairobi and Mombasa, stating that the funds were allocated by the National Assembly.
He distanced himself from Agrobriq Investments Limited, which handled the renovations, adding that he was not involved in the tendering process or project supervision.
On accusations related to Lusona Events Limited, Gachagua stated that he was neither a director nor a shareholder of the company, nor did he have any knowledge of the funds.
Gachagua emphasized that no evidence has been provided against him by the impeachment motion’s proponent.
He addressed the accusations of using 22 companies for laundering money, denying any proof to support such claims.
The alleged acquisition of billions violated anti-corruption laws, according to Mr. Mutuse. However, Gachagua’s defense will be heard in the National Assembly as they deliberate the impeachment motion.
According to the constitution, the impeachment motion requires a vote of at least 233 MPs to pass.
“For full transparency, I am sharing the current status of these companies,” said Gachagua.
The Rigathi Gachagua Foundation was incorporated in 2022 as a non-profit to support underprivileged groups and has received Sh12 million since its creation.
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The Dorcas Rigathi Foundation was also incorporated in 2022 by Gachagua’s spouse, Pastor Dorcas Rigathi, to rehabilitate marginalized groups.
Spirit Way Limited, established by Pastor Dorcas Rigathi in 2023, is a ministry initiative that has never conducted business or held a bank account.
Calvary Creed International Limited, incorporated in 2015 by Pastor Dorcas, has also not traded.
Other mentioned entities like Mothers of the Land Limited, The Anansi Collective, and Grand Bypass Apartments Limited were described as non-operational or part of family holdings.
He also discussed Fortis Vis Group Limited, Pioneer Medical (K) Limited, and others, clarifying their lack of business activity.
Ridor Furniture Mart Limited was said to manage rental property, while Biovet (K) Limited has not been operational for 15 years.
Morani Manufacturers Limited was set up in 2021, with the family owning a minority share, focusing on animal feed production.
Gachagua explained that Delta Merchants Limited, Wamunyoro Investments Limited, Cosmere Venture Limited, Royal Crimson Ventures Limited, and Kuruwitu Properties Limited have also remained non-operational.
Crystal Kenya Limited was transferred to his sons and acquired properties like Outspan Hotel and TreeTops Hotel.
Other companies like Heartland Supplies Limited, Karandi Farm Limited, and Technical Supplies and Services (K) Limited were also mentioned as inactive or operating farms.
Gachagua: This is My Defense
