Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has alleged that the Bomas of Kenya in Lang’ata, Nairobi, has been sold to a well-known Turkish national.
Speaking at a church event in Kitengela, Kajiado County, on Sunday, March 9, Gachagua claimed that the sale was executed despite his opposition during a Cabinet meeting when he served as the second-in-command.
“On matters of corruption, I told the President that we promised Kenyans we would serve them, but the government has become a den of thieves. As we speak, Bomas of Kenya has been sold to a Turkish citizen. It is gone,” he stated.
According to Gachagua, he was the only Cabinet member who objected to the sale, while others remained silent in fear of President William Ruto.
“I opposed it alone in Cabinet. The rest were too scared; when they saw the President, they were shaken. I stood my ground and said Bomas of Kenya is a national heritage and should not be sold,” he added.
Gachagua further claimed that aviation stakeholders had raised safety concerns, arguing that the facility was located beneath a flight path to Wilson Airport. He alleged that his resistance to the plan contributed to his eventual impeachment as Deputy President.
“We are on our own as a country. Ruto has two years to do whatever he wants. You have seen who has joined him in government,” he remarked.
On August 8, 2023, the Cabinet approved plans to transform Bomas of Kenya into an ultra-modern convention centre. Dubbed the Bomas International Convention Centre (BICC), the project was expected to feature a conference centre, a presidential pavilion, and at least five hotels. The expansion aimed to position Kenya as a top destination for global meetings, conferences, and exhibitions.
Gachagua also explained why he postponed the launch of his political party, citing fears that the government could sabotage his plans.
“The party is ready. It is like a brand-new car in the showroom. I wanted to launch it, but powerful individuals had their own plans. Between the showroom and the road, they might throw obstacles in our path. I hope you understand,” he said.
He disclosed that the national chairperson of his soon-to-be-launched party would be from Kajiado County.
After several delays, Gachagua announced in February that his party would be unveiled in May 2025, with Nairobi as the launch venue to accommodate supporters from across the country.
Gachagua is reportedly working with Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka and People’s Liberation Party chief Martha Karua to form a strong coalition ahead of the next general election. However, he faces an uphill battle against a faction led by top contenders who garnered the majority of votes in the 2022 election.
