This archive report was first published on 18 July 2019.
Published on July 18, 2019
Kenyatta Defends Tuju Amid Ruto's Opposition Links Allegations ¶
Deputy President William Ruto's allies have threatened disciplinary action against Jubilee Secretary-General Raphael Tuju over his alleged links with the Opposition. However, President Kenyatta has defended Tuju, stating that his Rarieda meeting was official and sanctioned by the President.
According to State House spokesperson Kanze Dena, the meeting in Rarieda was a government function, and Tuju was there in his capacity as the presidential representative. Dena further stated that Tuju had an official speech of the President and that it was not a private function but a development event by the government.
Tuju also confirmed that he read the Head of State's speech as a government official, stating that it was indeed an official trip. He added that they were received by the local administration and Permanent Secretary in the State department of Youth upon their arrival.
However, Ruto's allies have questioned Tuju's attendance of the function, saying it was in bad taste for him to officiate projects implemented by leaders of an opposing party. Jubilee Chief Whip Benjamin Washiali questioned the intentions of the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) in appointing James Orengo and Amollo Otiende as its lead lawyers in a matter on Ruto's Weston Hotel land case.
Washiali further stated that justice is likely to be compromised, and Kikuyu MP Kimani Ichung'wa termed the involvement of Orengo and Dr Amollo in the matter a 'warfare' sponsored by the owners of the stop Ruto movement. Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei also stated that they will ensure they subject Tuju to disciplinary action.
However, Siaya Senator James Orengo and Rarieda MP Otiende Amollo maintained that Tuju's relationship with the Opposition should not be misconstrued as there was nothing sinister, especially after the handshake. They also stated that they will continue representing KCAA in the civil case pitting the authority against the Weston Hotel.
