Tension is mounting in Kenyan politics as the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) intensifies its probe into three close aides of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.....CLICK HERE TO READ THE FULL ARTICLE>>>
The scrutiny, which has shocked the political landscape, centres on accusations that these aides were instrumental in financing and orchestrating recent youth-led protests that disrupted the nation and forced President William Ruto to make significant concessions.
The DCI’s Serious Crimes Unit has been conducting rigorous questioning of the three aides, whose roles have been scrutinised in relation to alleged efforts to infiltrate and fund the protests that led to a dramatic withdrawal of the Finance Bill, 2024, and a cabinet reshuffle by Ruto.
This investigative focus is part of a broader examination into claims that these aides played a key role in mobilising protestors against the government.
Initial reports suggested that five individuals were implicated, but the number has been trimmed to three as the investigation progresses. One individual had been abroad during the height of the protests, travelling to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). He has since satisfactorily explained his mission, easing some concerns.
Another aide faced questions over “suspicious” financial transactions made during the protests, raising further intrigue about the extent of their involvement.
The DCI’s inquiry has also touched on other prominent figures, including a former governor and a high-profile Nairobi MP, who have been questioned regarding their potential links to the protests. This widening investigation reflects the gravity of the situation and the potential for political fallout.
Amidst this unfolding drama, allegations have emerged suggesting a potential impeachment plot against Deputy President Gachagua. Some of Ruto’s allies are reportedly gathering signatures to challenge Gachagua’s position.
The unfolding crisis has intensified the political atmosphere, with President Ruto previously accusing the protests of being hijacked by “organised criminals” and claiming they were a strategic move against his administration.
Adding to the complexity of the situation, Gachagua has publicly addressed the nation, dismissing claims that he is involved in the protests. He has accused the National Intelligence Service (NIS) Director, Noordin Haji, of trying to link him and former President Uhuru Kenyatta in the alleged plot.
Gachagua’s defenders, including political advisor Ngunjiri Wambugu and youth advisor Eric Theuri, have also been questioned as part of the broader probe.
The investigation has further implicated other political figures such as Embakasi North MP James Gakuya and Embakasi Central MP Mejja Donk, who are suspected of having a role in the alleged protest orchestration. This has sparked concerns among MPs and political analysts about the potential impact on the political dynamics within the Kenya Kwanza administration.
The political environment has been further stirred by Gachagua’s critics, including Laikipia East MP Mwangi Kiunjuri, who has claimed that President Ruto’s recent actions, including co-opting ODM figures into his government, are a response to Gachagua’s alleged political manoeuvrings.
Kiunjuri has presented evidence, including photographs and financial records, to support claims of a plot to undermine Ruto’s leadership.
This controversy comes as President Ruto makes strategic political moves, including appointing ODM allies to key government positions. Analysts suggest that these appointments might create a new power dynamic within the administration, challenging the previous alliances and potentially reshaping the political landscape.
The DCI’s ongoing investigation is set against a backdrop of intense political rivalry and public scrutiny. As the probe continues, the implications for Gachagua and the broader Kenya Kwanza administration remain unclear…CONTINUE READING>>
