Gachagua Alleges Sale of Bomas of Kenya and Prison Lands to Turkish National
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has made explosive allegations about the sale of Bomas of Kenya, a national heritage site, to a Turkish national. Speaking at the ACK Holy Trinity Church in Kitengela, Kajiado County, Gachagua claimed that the Cabinet had already approved the transaction despite objections from the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA). He further revealed that the sale of Bomas of Kenya was part of a broader land deal that involved prison lands across the country.
The Allegations Unfold: Bomas of Kenya and Prison Lands Sold
In his statement, Gachagua accused the government of selling Bomas of Kenya without regard for its status as a national treasure. “As we speak, Bomas of Kenya has been sold to a Turkish national. The Cabinet was informed, and I was the only one who opposed it. I stood firm and said this is a national heritage; we cannot sell it,” Gachagua said. His remarks have raised concerns about the future of the site, known for promoting and preserving Kenya’s diverse cultures. He criticized the government’s decision, adding that the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority had raised valid concerns regarding the site’s location in a flight path, but the government proceeded regardless.
The former Deputy President didn’t stop at the Bomas of Kenya. He also brought attention to the sale of prison lands across the country, suggesting that the government had sold these lands, which are vital to the functioning of correctional facilities. “All prison lands have been sold. All prisons need to be relocated. Even churches built on these lands, including Catholic and SDA churches, will be demolished,” Gachagua asserted. The implications of these sales, especially for correctional facilities and religious institutions, have sparked further debates about the government’s land policies.
The Role of the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA)
One of the key points in Gachagua’s allegations is the involvement of the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA). According to Gachagua, KCAA raised serious concerns about the location of Bomas of Kenya, which sits within a crucial flight path. Civil aviation officials feared that the sale of the property to a foreign national could create safety risks, particularly concerning the site’s accessibility for air traffic control and aviation-related activities. Gachagua claims that despite these concerns, the government proceeded with the sale, which he believes compromises national security and heritage.
Gachagua emphasized that he was the only official to oppose the transaction, suggesting that many in the Cabinet were either unaware or indifferent to the concerns raised by KCAA. “The people from civil aviation opposed it, but the President went ahead and sold it. We are on our own,” Gachagua lamented. His comments have stirred public debate over the accountability of government actions, especially regarding national assets and heritage sites.
A Broader Allegation: The Sale of Prison Lands
Beyond Bomas of Kenya, Gachagua also expressed grave concerns over the fate of prison lands. He alleged that the government had sold all prison lands, leading to the need for the relocation of prisons and other facilities that rely on these lands. The sale of such lands, according to Gachagua, poses significant challenges to the operations of correctional facilities and could potentially lead to the displacement of communities and religious institutions that have been built on these lands.
He further warned that if the sales were allowed to continue unchecked, it would create a precedent that could lead to more national assets being sold off, leaving the country vulnerable to exploitation by foreign nationals. The idea of selling prison lands, which are essential to the functioning of the penal system, has been met with backlash, especially from human rights advocates who fear that such sales could disrupt the rehabilitation of prisoners and the administration of justice.
The Political Implications: Gachagua’s Role as an Opposition Figure
Gachagua’s statements have also stirred political controversy, particularly given his role as an opposition figure. The former Deputy President, who served under President Uhuru Kenyatta, has been vocal about his opposition to the current government’s policies. Gachagua has consistently criticized the ruling administration for what he perceives as misguided decisions that threaten Kenya’s sovereignty and national interests.
His allegations about the sale of Bomas of Kenya and prison lands come at a time when President William Ruto and ODM leader Raila Odinga have formalized a political pact aimed at fostering cooperation between the ruling UDA party and the opposition. Gachagua dismissed this political alliance, calling it a distraction from more pressing national issues. “Do not be concerned about what is happening. It is a distraction. They are called theatrics, meant to divert our focus,” he stated.
The Response from Political Leaders
In the wake of Gachagua’s allegations, several political leaders have weighed in on the matter. Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka expressed disappointment over what he described as a betrayal by Raila Odinga in entering into a political agreement with President Ruto. Musyoka, who has long been an ally of Odinga, described the political shift as a “betrayal” and urged his followers to remain vigilant and question the motives behind such alliances.
Meanwhile, DAP-K leader Eugene Wamalwa questioned the motivations behind reviving the National Dialogue Committee (NADCO) report, which proposes the reinstatement of the Prime Minister’s position. Wamalwa, who has been critical of the government, suggested that the report’s revival was likely a move to install Raila Odinga as Prime Minister. “We know that the proposed Prime Minister’s position is meant for Raila Odinga. This is the main reason the NADCO report was picked up. Why the sudden interest in reviving it?” Wamalwa asked.
Despite these criticisms, Acting ODM party leader Prof. Anyang’ Nyong’o defended the political pact between Ruto and Odinga, urging opposition leaders to read the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the two leaders before passing judgment. “Kalonzo could acquaint himself better in the court of conscience if he reads the content of the MoU before condemning its signing by the two parties,” Nyong’o stated. His remarks sought to quell the ongoing political tension and to defend the legitimacy of the handshake between Ruto and Odinga.
The Debate Over National Heritage and Land Policies
Gachagua’s allegations have sparked a national conversation about the preservation of Kenya’s heritage and the country’s land policies. The sale of iconic national assets like Bomas of Kenya, along with critical lands such as those used for correctional facilities, has raised concerns about the potential long-term consequences for the country. Critics argue that selling off national treasures and vital lands could lead to the exploitation of Kenya’s resources by foreign nationals, further undermining national sovereignty and the welfare of its citizens.
As Kenya’s political landscape continues to evolve, the debate surrounding the sale of Bomas of Kenya and prison lands is likely to intensify. Supporters of Gachagua’s stance argue that such decisions should not be made without thorough public consultation and consideration of the country’s cultural and national interests. Others, however, view the allegations as politically motivated and believe that the government’s actions are in line with its broader development goals.
Conclusion: Gachagua’s Continued Opposition
Gachagua’s accusations, whether true or exaggerated, highlight the deepening rift between the opposition and the current government. His ongoing criticism of government actions, particularly regarding the sale of national assets, positions him as a staunch defender of Kenya’s heritage and sovereignty. As the political landscape continues to evolve, the fallout from these allegations may have significant implications for Kenya’s future development and political direction. Gachagua’s unwavering stance on national issues ensures that he remains a pivotal figure in Kenya’s political scene, whether as a critic or a catalyst for change.
