Deputy President Gachagua Intensifies Agriculture Crackdown, Warns KTDA Directors
On Friday, July 7, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua intensified his crackdown in the agriculture sector by issuing a stern warning to the directors of the Kenya Tea Development Agency (KTDA).
During his address to participants at the Tea Reforms Conference in Kericho County, the DP disclosed that he possessed the travel itinerary of KTDA executives, which was forwarded to him by an unnamed, reliable source.
“An insider provided me with some of these KTDA directors’ travel information. Some of them have traveled 36 times in two years using money from farmers, Gachagua revealed to the directors’ surprise.
He threatened to forward their names to the National Intelligence Service (NIS), under the direction of Director General Noordin Haji, for further investigation before taking further action.
ALSO READ: Raila Odinga Threatens Independent Electoral Commission Amid Select Committee Disregard
“After some cross-checking, I’ll forward the names to the National Intelligence Service (NIS) for additional verification. “There is no witch hunt, but we must have an open dialogue,” he added.
Gachagua did not explain, however, why he chose NIS instead of the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) or the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC), which investigates fraud and embezzlement of public funds.
In an impassioned speech, the DP emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring that farmers receive their fair share of profits from the cash crop that generates enormous profits abroad.
The DP emphasized that the government intended for the farmer to profit from the crop, thereby generating revenue abroad.
“Every time you make a profit, you start a new project to use the profits, rather than benefiting the farmers,” he complained. “This must stop.”
“I am aware that you will not be pleased with us, but we do not require your affection,” the DP continued.
Before the agency initiates a new project, according to Gachagua, all relevant stakeholders, including the zealous farmers, should participate in discussions and decision-making processes.
“You cannot sit in Nairobi and initiate a billion-dollar project without consulting the owners of the money (farmers). “Those who have been defrauding farmers must include farmers, or they will lose the opportunity,” Gachagua said.
President William Ruto tasked the Second in Command with reorganizing the cartel-controlled coffee, tea, and Miraa industries. Through the crackdown, the Kenya Kwanza duo intended to stimulate the economy, improve food security, and ensure youth employment.
Deputy President Gachagua Intensifies Agriculture Crackdown, Warns KTDA Directors
HEY READER. PLEASE SUPPORT THIS SITE BY CLICKING ADS. DON’T FORGET TO HIT THE NOTIFICATION BELL FOR MORE UPDATES AROUND THE GLOBE.
