Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua on Monday evening defended himself against allegations that his net worth exploded to the tune of billions after he took office in 2022.
In yet another media interview to reiterate his innocence, the embattled Gachagua went on a tirade in response to the 40-page impeachment motion set to be tabled against him on Tuesday, October 1.
He particularly took issue with claims that he accrued Ksh5.7 billion in assets since he became President William Ruto’s number two, saying he has always been a wealthy man.
“Kenyans know very well that when I took office, I was not poor,” Gachagua stated.
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua with priests and other leaders cutting a cake during centenary celebrations at Baricho Catholic Parish in Kirinyaga County on Sunday, September 15, 2024.
Rigathi Gachagua
“My wealth has always been documented in public. In 2019, I was worth Ksh 12 billion. In 2022, I had Ksh 7 billion to my name.”
Gachagua’s alleged properties, as per the impeachment motion, include Tree Tops Hotel, Outspan Hotel from Aberdare Safari Hotels, Olive Gardens Hotel, and Vipingo Beach Resort in Kilifi County among others.
Documents set to be presented before the National Assembly on Tuesday claim that Gachagua acquired the properties through close family members and his sons Kevin Rigathi Gachagua, and Keith Ikinu Rigathi.
On the question of fraudulently channeling public funds towards his sons, Gachagua revealed that he had businesses long before becoming the Deputy President.
He stated, “I’m not involved in corruption. I have always been in business even before I became a government official. My sons have never worked with the government as I have always told them to invest in the private sector. If there is anyone who has evidence of any business dealings they can come forward.”
The DP further explained that Treetop hotel, which was specifically mentioned in the motion document obtained by Kenyans.co.ke, was leased from the Kenya Wildlife Service and not owned by him as claimed in the motion.
In addition, Gachagua maintained that his children took hefty loans to be able to invest in their businesses.
With an impeachment motion set to be tabled on Tuesday, October 1, Gachagua appears prepared for anything, as he exuded confidence the truth would prevail.
“You will be shocked. Let’s wait and see (whether the impeachment happens). I hear the motion is tomorrow.”
A collage of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and the Outspan Hotel in Nyeri. PHOTO/Rigathi Gachagua.
