Three Aides to Deputy President Gachagua Grilled Over Anti-Government Protests Financing
Three aides to Kenya’s Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua were questioned on Tuesday in connection with an ongoing investigation into the funding of recent anti-government protests. The government, maintaining that the protests are not organic, is seeking to uncover those who may have financially supported the demonstrations.
According to reports from state-affiliated media The Star, the aides were interrogated by officials from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI). The questioning is part of a broader probe aimed at establishing the sources of funds that have been allegedly used to sustain the protests, which have seen widespread participation across various parts of the country.
“The grilling is a routine investigative procedure,” said an official from the DCI who requested anonymity. “We are following leads that suggest the protests might be orchestrated and funded by individuals with ulterior motives.”
Deputy President Gachagua, however, dismissed the allegations as baseless and politically motivated. “These claims are nothing but a desperate attempt to tarnish our image. Our aides are law-abiding citizens, and there is no evidence to support these accusations,” he stated.
The government insists that the protests are not spontaneous expressions of public dissent but rather orchestrated efforts by certain political factions. Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki reiterated this stance, saying, “We have credible intelligence indicating that the protests are being financed by individuals seeking to destabilize the government.”
The protests, which have been marked by clashes between demonstrators and police, have centered on a range of issues, including the high cost of living and controversial government policies. Despite the government’s assertions, many protestors claim their actions are driven by genuine grievances and frustration with the current administration.
As the investigation continues, the focus on potential financiers of the protests is likely to intensify. The outcome of this probe could have significant implications for the political landscape in Kenya, further heightening tensions between the government and opposition forces.
