Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has recently addressed a series of corruption allegations connected to 22 companies associated with his family, amidst an impeachment motion currently under consideration in Parliament. The motion, spearheaded by Kibwezi West MP Mwengi Mutuse, outlines 11 specific grounds for the allegations, which Gachagua firmly denies, asserting that no substantial evidence has been provided to support the claims.
In his response, Gachagua criticized the impeachment effort as a politically motivated attack designed to undermine his reputation. He stated, “It does appear to me that the mover of the motion was so meticulous to get all the companies associated with me. However, it is not possible to get evidence of illegality where there is none.”
Allegations from MP Mwengi Mutuse
Kibwezi West MP Mwengi Mutuse, who introduced the impeachment motion, has accused Gachagua of using these companies to engage in corrupt practices. Mutuse claimed that the sheer number of companies linked to the Deputy President raises significant red flags. He emphasized that Gachagua’s family has benefited disproportionately from government contracts and tenders, alleging that this has contributed to the systemic corruption that plagues the country.
Mutuse highlighted that many of the companies in question have questionable operational histories and have not been transparent in their dealings. He insisted that the lack of trading activity in several firms points to potential money laundering or attempts to hide illicit gains. “The evidence is there; these companies are either dormant or have been used as conduits for corruption. We cannot allow such behavior to go unchecked,” Mutuse asserted.
Gachagua’s Clarifications on the Companies
In a bid to counter these allegations, Gachagua provided a detailed account of each company involved, including their ownership structures, establishment dates, and operational statuses. Here’s an in-depth look at the companies, incorporating Gachagua’s defenses:
1. Rigathi Gachagua Foundation: Established in 2022, Gachagua asserted that this non-profit organization focuses on uplifting the lives of underprivileged individuals, having received Ksh.12 million in donations. He emphasized its charitable work, which counters claims of financial misconduct.
2. Dorcas Rigathi Foundation: Launched by Pastor Dorcas Rigathi in 2022, the foundation aims to support vulnerable populations, including drug addicts and single mothers. Gachagua noted that its mission is purely philanthropic and not linked to any government contracts.
3. Spirit Way Limited: Incorporated in 2023 for church ministry purposes, Gachagua clarified that it has never engaged in trading activities and does not maintain a bank account, emphasizing that it cannot be tied to any allegations of corruption.
4. Calvary Creed International Limited: Gachagua pointed out that this company was established nine years before he took office and has not been active since 2021. He questioned how a dormant entity could be implicated in corruption.
5. Mothers of the Land Limited: Founded in 2021, this company has not conducted any business with government entities. Gachagua reiterated that it was established for community support, not profit.
6. The Anansi Collective: Registered in 2021 under Gachagua’s son, Dr. Keith Rigathi, Gachagua noted that it has never traded and lacks a bank account, further undermining claims of financial impropriety.
7. Grand Bypass Apartments Limited: Launched in 2024, this company facilitates the transfer of apartments to beneficiaries of Gachagua’s late brother. Gachagua argued that this project is purely for social benefit, negating claims of corruption.
8. Vipingo Beach Resort Limited: Established in 2008, the company lists Gachagua’s sons as directors. Gachagua clarified that the shares are owned by the estate of his late brother, framing it as a family-owned asset rather than a corrupt enterprise.
9. Fortis Vis Group: Founded in 2023, Gachagua asserted that this company has never engaged in trading and lacks a bank account, reinforcing the notion that it cannot be linked to corruption.
10. Pioneer Medical Limited: Gachagua emphasized that this company was incorporated before he took office and has been inactive for the past ten years, questioning how it could be involved in any recent corrupt activities.
11. Ridor Furniture Mart Limited: Established 17 years ago, Gachagua described this company as one that manages rental properties and engages in furniture business, indicating legitimate operations.
12. Biovet Limited: Gachagua challenged the notion that this dormant company, inactive for 15 years, could have any involvement in illicit activities.
13. Morani Manufacturers Limited: Founded by Pastor Dorcas and her son, Gachagua explained that this company conducted only one small transaction and has been largely inactive, arguing against any accusations of widespread corruption.
14. Delta Merchants Limited: Gachagua stated that this company has not traded for a decade, further questioning its alleged role in corruption.
15. Wamunyoro Investments Limited: Established long before his vice presidency, Gachagua highlighted this company’s role as a property holding entity.
16. Cosmere Venture Limited: Launched in 2018, Gachagua confirmed that it has not engaged in government business since he took office, countering claims of misconduct.
17. Royal Crimson Venture Limited: Gachagua reiterated that this company has not traded with the government during his tenure, further defending its inactivity.
18. Kuruwitu Properties Limited: This company is linked to the estate of Gachagua’s late brother, emphasizing family ties rather than corruption.
19. Crystal Kenya Limited: Gachagua detailed the acquisition of Outspan Hotel and Treetops Hotel, clarifying that Treetops was leased, not purchased, and financed through a legitimate bank loan.
20. Heartland Supplies Limited: Citing a decade of inactivity, Gachagua questioned the plausibility of this company being involved in any corruption.
21. Karandi Farm Limited: Operating as a dairy farm since 2001, Gachagua noted that this company reflects legitimate agricultural activities.
22. Technical Supplies and Services (K) Limited: This entity has been inactive for the past ten years, further backing Gachagua’s claims of legitimacy.
In a Round-Up
As the impeachment motion progresses in Parliament today Tuesday 8th October 2024, the scrutiny surrounding Deputy President Gachagua’s business dealings remains intense. He continues to assert that the allegations are baseless, emphasizing the lack of evidence provided by the motion’s proponents. Meanwhile, MP Mwengi Mutuse remains adamant that the numerous companies linked to Gachagua warrant serious investigation. This ongoing political drama has sparked widespread discussions regarding accountability and transparency in governance, particularly concerning public figures and their private enterprises.
Thanks for breaking it down in details🙌