Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua is currently embroiled in serious allegations concerning a Sh3.7 billion tender intended for the procurement of mosquito nets. He has denied claims suggesting that he abused his executive powers to solicit this tender, allegedly favoring his two sons in the process. Gachagua has labeled these allegations as “ridiculous and baseless.”
Background of the Allegations
The controversy surrounding the mosquito net tender surfaced shortly after the Kenya Kwanza government assumed office. Reports emerged claiming that Gachagua, along with high-ranking officials from the Ministry of Health, attempted to manipulate the tender process. This raised concerns about the integrity and transparency of the procurement system, which is critical in ensuring that public funds are used appropriately.
In a televised interview yesterday Monday 7th October 2024 at 7pm EAT, Gachagua strongly asserted his lack of involvement, stating, “Where was the Deputy President involved in a tender? This is a tender that never was.” He has confirmed that he will appear before Parliament on Tuesday to defend himself against these allegations. His appearance is particularly significant as the accusations form a key basis for a potential impeachment motion against him.
The Tender Process Explained
The tender in question was part of an international open bidding process initiated on January 31, 2023, with a deadline for submitting bids set for February 23. This procurement was meant to supply long-lasting mosquito nets, an essential resource in combating malaria in Kenya.
Following an investigation into the tender, Gachagua explained that no public funds were lost, and no mosquito nets were ultimately supplied, contradicting claims of corruption linked to the process. He emphasized that the investigation resulted in the exoneration of key officials involved.
Key Officials and Investigative Findings
Gachagua pointed out that former Public Health Principal Secretary Josephine Muthoni was dismissed amid the scandal, while former KEMSA Chief Executive Terry Ramadhani was suspended. However, subsequent investigations cleared these individuals of any wrongdoing. Gachagua stated, “Terry was cleared, which means there was no scandal. No public funds were lost.”
Interestingly, Andrew Mulwa, the acting KEMSA CEO, has been listed as a witness in the impeachment motion against Gachagua. However, Gachagua clarified that Mulwa was not involved during the tendering process; he came in only after the tender had been annulled. Gachagua further explained that Mulwa was tasked with handling the aftermath of that annulment.
Global Fund’s Review and Implications
The controversy intensified when a review conducted by the Global Fund criticized the procurement process. The audit highlighted that the Ministry of Health failed to adhere to the evaluation criteria specified in the tender documents, leading to inconsistencies in how all bidders were assessed. This review has raised alarms about the procurement system’s transparency and accountability.
Due to these issues, the Global Fund decided to transfer the procurement process to Wambo.Org, stressing the urgent need for long-lasting mosquito nets for a mass campaign scheduled for November 2023. The Global Fund has played a crucial role in Kenya’s healthcare system, particularly in combating diseases such as malaria, HIV/AIDS, and tuberculosis. Since its establishment in 2002, it has committed over US$1.8 billion and disbursed more than US$1.4 billion to address these critical health challenges.
Implications of the Scandal
The allegations against Gachagua are serious and carry significant political implications. If the impeachment motion proceeds, it could have far-reaching effects on his political career and the stability of the Kenya Kwanza government. The scrutiny surrounding this scandal has sparked a broader conversation about accountability and governance within the Kenyan political system.
As the situation unfolds, Deputy President Gachagua maintains his innocence and insists that the claims against him are unfounded. His scheduled appearance before Parliament is a crucial moment, as it will allow him to address the allegations regarding the KEMSA mosquito net tender and the ongoing impeachment motion. With essential health campaigns approaching and political tensions rising, the outcome of this scandal could significantly impact both Gachagua and Kenya’s healthcare sector.