Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has stirred political debate after making a series of explosive claims about alleged business dealings, government funds, and a controversial police operation at a Nairobi hotel.
Gachagua Responds to Claims of Not Paying for Nairobi Apartment
Speaking during a public address, Gachagua alleged that a powerful businessman who previously operated in the hospitality sector in Nairobi’s Westlands area has expanded his influence into the banking industry.
According to Gachagua, the businessman allegedly acquired control of Sidian Bank after building wealth through government-related conferences, seminars, and workshops that were often hosted in hotels within the Westlands district.
Gachagua claimed that large sums of money linked to major government programs had been moved away from established state-associated financial institutions and redirected to the bank.
He specifically mentioned funds connected to the government’s affordable housing initiative and the national health program, suggesting that these resources were transferred from institutions such as Kenya Commercial Bank and National Bank of Kenya.
According to Gachagua, the alleged shift of funds has allowed the bank to generate massive profits daily. He further claimed that the long-term goal behind the strategy was to concentrate government financial flows in a single privately controlled institution, which he suggested could weaken public banks.
The former deputy president also spoke about a controversial incident involving a hotel in Nairobi that he alleged had been acquired through proxies. He claimed the hotel was purchased through associates and that a heavy police presence was recently deployed at the property.
Witnesses reportedly saw numerous vehicles, including Land Cruisers and other security vehicles, outside the premises during what appeared to be an eviction operation.
Gachagua questioned who would have the authority to deploy such a large number of security vehicles to remove individuals from a private property dispute. The incident, he said, had raised concerns among local communities and political leaders.
His remarks have triggered strong reactions across the political landscape. Supporters argue that the allegations highlight the need for greater transparency in how government funds are managed and where they are deposited.
Others, however, have criticised the claims as politically charged statements that require evidence before they can be taken seriously.
So far, government officials and the institutions mentioned have not publicly responded in detail to the allegations. Political analysts say the statements are likely to intensify the already heated political environment as Kenya moves closer to future electoral contests.
For many observers, the controversy underscores the growing intersection of politics, banking, and business interests in Kenya’s evolving political economy. Calls for independent investigations and clearer explanations from relevant authorities continue to grow as the debate unfolds.
