Treasury Cabinet Secretary Henry Rotich spent two days answering detailed questions from investigators probing irregularities in the stalled Arror and Kimwarer dam projects. The inquiry, focusing on financial discrepancies and procedural lapses, included 301 questions on matters such as unverified payments to an Italian firm, absence of project designs, and missing environmental reports.
Rotich, who first appeared before detectives on February 18, 2019, returned to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) on March 5, 2019, after providing 152 answers the previous day. Investigators examined why billions in funds were disbursed before project commencement, with concerns over high loan premiums and lack of public participation. The CS also addressed the involvement of a financially troubled company in project approvals.
The probe, initiated after an Italian government letter highlighted contractor difficulties, revealed conflicting figures on payments. While the Kerio Valley Development Authority (KVDA) reported Sh7.8 billion spent, DCI cited Sh20.5 billion. A team was dispatched to South Africa to verify claims of prior dam projects used for due diligence, though findings remain undisclosed.
DCI Director George Kinoti stated investigations were nearing completion, with the Director of Public Prosecutions set to review evidence. Over 100 individuals, including Treasury officials and suppliers, have been questioned. Rotich was warned that his statements could be used against him, as the case could lead to charges against senior officials involved in the 2017-funded projects.
