President Uhuru Kenyatta dismissed claims by critics aligned with former Vice President William Ruto, stating that public forums like funerals and weddings are ineffective for addressing corruption allegations. Speaking at the Sixth Annual Devolution Conference in Kirinyaga county, he challenged accusers to present evidence of wrongdoing to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI).
"If you believe I have stolen or engaged in graft, book an appointment with DCI Director George Kinoti," Kenyatta said in Kiswahili. "The deceased will not help you. Go to DCI and file your case." The DCI offices are located in Mazingira House, opposite Karura Forest on Kiambu Road.
Rift Valley MP Oscar Sudi accused the president and opposition leader Raila Odinga of using anti-graft campaigns to target Ruto allies. "When Ruto supported Raila, he wasn't a thief. Now that he seeks power, he's labeled one," Sudi said. He also claimed DCI Kinoti is being misused to harass innocent citizens.
Kenyatta defended his administration's anti-corruption efforts, stating they focus on those undermining national development. He highlighted a planned national conference to address fiscal mismanagement, citing examples of counties where salaries consume most revenue. "Fifty-two percent of revenue goes to salaries, 30% to recurrent costs, leaving only 20% for development," he said.
The president called for cooperation with state agencies and urged governors to prioritize transparency. He emphasized that all suspects will have legal recourse, rejecting public accusations as counterproductive.
