(Nairobi) – Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has forcefully defended himself against allegations that he has amassed wealth amounting to KSh 5.2 billion, which are at the heart of a motion seeking his removal from office. He described the accusations as baseless and unfounded.
The claims originated from Mwengi Mutuse, the Member of Parliament for Kibwezi West and the sponsor of the motion. Mutuse asserts that Gachagua’s wealth does not align with his known income, which is a salary of Sh24 million over two years.
During a press briefing at his residence in Karen, Nairobi, Gachagua clarified the ownership of several properties attributed to him. He stated that the Olive Garden Hotel and Vipingo Beach Hotel, located in Malindi, Kilifi County, belong to his late brother, former Nyeri Governor James Nderitu Gachagua. He explained that he, along with construction expert Mwai Mathenge and lawyer Njoroge Regero, was appointed by his late brother to manage these assets. According to Gachagua, the Olive Garden Hotel was sold for Sh450 million, and the proceeds were distributed among the late governor’s children.
Gachagua also refuted claims that he unlawfully acquired 40 acres of land in the Kieni constituency. He asserted that he purchased the land from local MP Njoroge Wainaina. “I am surprised that Wainaina is among the MPs who signed the motion to remove me, yet he knows very well that he sold me that piece of land, which is actually 35 acres,” Gachagua stated.
In addition to these points, Gachagua provided details about other land parcels he owns in Mathira West and Meru County, stating that he acquired these properties before taking office as Deputy President.
He denied allegations regarding his ownership of two restaurants, Oustpan and Treetop, asserting that these establishments are owned by his adult children, who are free to conduct their business like any other Kenyans. “These two restaurants and other companies owned by my children have never conducted business with the government,” he explained.
Gachagua announced that he would appear in Parliament today to vigorously defend himself against the allegations and other claims contained in the motion. He emphasized that the 7.1 million Kenyans who voted for him and President William Ruto deserve to hear his defense in Parliament, stating, “They are the ultimate authority under Article One of the Constitution.”
