Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has shed light on how his son acquired the multi-million TreeTops Hotel, a historic property located in Aberdare National Park.
Speaking in an interview on Monday, Gachagua refuted widespread claims that his sons, Kelvin and Keith, purchased the hotel, clarifying that they had leased it from the Kenya Wildlife Services (KWS) after securing a loan.
Gachagua emphasized that his sons do not engage in business dealings with the government and had followed proper procedures to lease the iconic hotel.
“They have leased this hotel from KWS, not purchased it. People are spreading rumors without knowledge; this hotel belongs to KWS and has been leased,” Gachagua explained.
The Deputy President added that the deal has enabled the family to create employment for 58 individuals who are currently managing the hotel. “We have hired 58 employees at the hotel to ensure its operations run smoothly,” he added.
The acquisition of TreeTops Hotel has sparked considerable controversy, with critics claiming that the Gachagua family used political influence to secure the property.
However, the Deputy President firmly dismissed these allegations, asserting that the family adhered to all legal and financial requirements.
Gachagua blamed political rivals for the accusations, suggesting they are part of a concerted effort to discredit him in light of his looming impeachment motion.
“These people are desperate to tarnish my name and remove me from office, but they will be shocked when the time comes,” Gachagua remarked, pointing out that the timing of the accusations was suspicious.
Gachagua is facing impeachment over allegations of bullying and intimidation of political leaders, misuse of public funds, and involvement in the financing of anti-government protests.
The impeachment motion, spearheaded by legislators from the Mt. Kenya region, is gaining traction, reflecting waning support for Gachagua within his own political stronghold.
For the motion to succeed, it will need the support of at least 233 members of the National Assembly before moving to the Senate for further deliberation.
Gachagua has expressed his readiness to refute the allegations, dismissing them as fabricated and politically motivated. “I am ready to defend myself and will gladly receive the evidence they claim to have,” he said.
