This archive report was first published on 30 August 2019.
Former Kiambu Governor William Kabogo has sparked a heated debate in Kenya's political circles after claiming that MPs allied to Deputy President William Ruto, known as Tanga Tanga, receive Sh50,000 each to accompany him to fundraisers.
Speaking during an interview on Kameme TV, Kabogo reiterated his earlier remarks made during the funeral service of the late John De' Mathew, where he challenged DP Ruto and ODM leader Raila Odinga to stop early campaigns.
According to Kabogo, Ruto's frequent tours of the country are not about development, but rather early campaigns that are taking up valuable time that should be used in formulating policies.
DP Ruto later denied the allegations, telling President Uhuru Kenyatta that Kabogo was being unfair to him.
During the interview, Kabogo revealed why 'Tanga Tanga' MPs always give out Sh50,000 when they accompany DP Ruto on harambees, saying: 'You cannot be moving around the country purporting to launch all manner of projects. When will the government projects work? I always wonder, for example, what would a Kiambu MP be doing in Turkana every other weekend?'
He added: 'I have attended such harambees and I saw them being given 50,000 to add on to boss' harambee contribution. It is not their money. Ask yourself why they always give 50,000.'
When put on the spot by Kameme TV presenter Njogu Njoroge, who asked: 'But I have seen you with the DP at a harambee in Kuresoi?', Kabogo responded: 'But I have money, I have my own money my friend.'
Former Governor Kabogo also lauded President Kenyatta's efforts in the war on corruption, saying he was sure those implicated in graft deserved no mercy.
