In a bold move to strengthen the fight against financial crimes, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has urged the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) and other security agencies to enlist professionals such as accountants and bankers as investigators. Speaking at the 40th Annual Seminar of the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Kenya (ICPAK) in Mombasa, Gachagua emphasized the need for specialized expertise in tackling complex matters related to financial accounting.
Highlighting the challenges faced in his own Ksh200 million case, the Deputy President expressed concern over the involvement of police officers in investigations beyond their comprehension. Gachagua argued that the recruitment of professionals in fields like accounting and banking would lead to more effective and insightful investigations, potentially preventing cases from reaching the courtroom.
Addressing the economic challenges inherited by President William Ruto’s administration, Gachagua laid blame on the previous Jubilee regime for the staggering public debt of Sh9.6 trillion, pending bills of Sh900 billion, and a demoralized public service. Despite facing criticism from the Opposition Azimio leaders, the Deputy President defended Ruto, stating that the current government is diligently working to rebuild the economy by tightening revenue collection and sealing loopholes.
Gachagua also commended the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Kenya for its request to advise the government on public debt management, affirming the administration’s commitment to engaging with professionals for consultancy services.
Criticizes Mombasa Governor’s Response to Heavy Rains
In a separate address, the Deputy President criticized Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir for allegedly failing to support families affected by heavy rains. Gachagua, distributing relief food in Kisauni, demanded that Governor Nassir prioritize mitigation measures over development projects and allocate funds to provide immediate assistance to those affected by the ongoing El Nino rains.
Expressing disappointment in the Governor’s response, Gachagua urged Nassir to suspend other development activities and focus on distributing medical supplies, food, and blankets to the affected families. The Deputy President commended the Governors of Wajir, Garissa, and Mandera for releasing funds to aid residents in their flood-affected counties and called on Nassir to follow suit.
As the government addresses both financial crimes and natural disasters, Deputy President Gachagua emphasized the importance of incorporating professionals in investigations and urged local leaders to prioritize immediate relief efforts for affected communities.