Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga directly challenged Deputy President William Ruto in 2019 over allegations of graft involving the Arror and Kimwarer dams, demanding accountability from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI).
Odinga disputed Ruto's assertion that only Ksh7 billion was at stake, citing DCI findings of potential losses totaling Ksh21 billion. "If you are talking about the theft of dams and figures, don't come and tell us it was not Ksh20 billion and only Ksh7 billion. How do you know? Let the investigating authorities tell us," he stated during the exchange.
The confrontation highlighted tensions between the two political figures, with Odinga accusing Ruto's allies of obstructing anti-corruption efforts. He emphasized that individuals implicated in graft should face consequences without political interference, saying, "Everyone should carry their own cross without involving others."
Historical context reveals similar controversies surrounding the dams, with The Kenyan DAILY POST reporting on related issues in 2012. The 2019 dispute underscored ongoing scrutiny of high-profile infrastructure projects amid allegations of financial mismanagement.
