Inside the Ksh1.2 Billion Renovation Scandal of Ex Dp Gachagua’s Office
Members of the National Assembly are investigating allegations of misuse of a staggering Ksh1.2 billion earmarked for refurbishing former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s residence and offices.
The probe has raised eyebrows over what some MPs described as questionable expenditures on renovation projects.
The National Assembly Committee on Security grilled officials from the Office of the Deputy President during a tense session. At the heart of the scrutiny is the renovation of three properties: Gachagua’s Karen residence, the Harambee Annexe Office in Nairobi, and his Mombasa office.
Gachagua’s Questionable Expenditure
According to a report presented to the committee, Ksh400 million has already been spent on repair works that included fixing kitchens, constructing new washrooms, and landscaping. Legislators termed these expenses as extravagant.
“Part of the funds disbursed for the repair of the Harambee Annexe were used to fix broken kitchens, build new washrooms, and plant flowers,” revealed the report. This prompted Narok West MP Gabriel Tongoyo to question the cost efficiency of the renovations.
“For instance, the refurbishment of the Karen residence is estimated to cost Ksh560 million, but you only got Ksh250 million for this financial year and you say the project is 45 per cent complete. Is that the correct status of the project?” Tongoyo demanded.
The report further detailed the progress of the renovations. While the Harambee Annexe project is reported to be 45% complete, the Karen residence and the Mombasa office are lagging at 22% and 21%, respectively. Lawmakers expressed doubt that the funds allocated so far corresponded to the reported progress.
Ex Dp Gachagua’s Dismissals and Allegations
The probe comes on the heels of the dismissal of over 300 workers from Gachagua’s office, an action taken shortly after his impeachment by the Senate. The layoffs followed the mandatory leave of 108 other employees. MPs noted that the sacked workers would need to undergo clearance before their exit is finalized.
The committee voiced concerns over whether the funds allocated had been effectively managed and whether the lavish renovations were justifiable at a time of pressing economic challenges.
Next Steps after Ksh1.2 Billion Renovation Scandal
The MPs are expected to table a comprehensive report with recommendations for further action, potentially calling for audits of past expenditure and the introduction of stricter controls on government budgets.
The investigation marks a critical moment for accountability within high-ranking offices. As scrutiny intensifies, the nation watches to see if the expenditure of Ksh1.2 billion will be deemed necessary improvements or an egregious misuse of public funds.
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Inside the Ksh1.2 Billion Renovation Scandal of Ex Dp Gachagua’s Office
