Kenya Insights

Tag: Fake fertilizer

  • ‘WE HAVE CROSSED THE RUBICON’: Linturi Blasts Ruto, Vows Political Revenge in 2027

    ‘WE HAVE CROSSED THE RUBICON’: Linturi Blasts Ruto, Vows Political Revenge in 2027

    Former Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mithika Linturi has categorically denied President William Ruto’s claims of ongoing talks between them, in what appears to be a complete severing of ties with the administration that once counted him among its top officials.

    In an explosive interview with Weru TV, a vernacular station based in Meru, Linturi declared he has “crossed the Rubicon” and is now actively seeking opposition partners ahead of the 2027 elections, setting the stage for a potential political realignment in Kenya’s political landscape.

    “This is what jolted me into speaking out and walking away from the government,” Linturi said, referring to President Ruto’s April 2 remarks in Maua suggesting the two were in discussions about him potentially joining the broad-based government.

    “Nine months after I was hounded out of government, a pregnancy has come to term and a baby must be born. I have been quiet since I was fired but I have to come out and discount lies about me.”

    Linturi was removed from the Cabinet in the aftermath of the Gen Z protests that rocked the country in June last year.

    According to the former CS, his last communication with President Ruto occurred in December at State House, where the President reportedly told him he was “a victim of perception.”

    “I would rather die on my feet than live on my knees”

    In the interview, Linturi adopted a defiant tone, vowing that no form of enticement or intimidation would draw him back to Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance (UDA).

    “I don’t want his job; I am not interested. I will sort myself out,” he stated emphatically.

    President William Ruto
    President William Ruto.

    Perhaps most politically significant was Linturi’s revelation that he is now open to talks with several high-profile figures who have fallen out with the Ruto administration, including former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and former Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i, as well as opposition leader Kalonzo Musyoka.

    “We need to reenact a 2002 moment in 2027,” Linturi said, alluding to the historic coalition that ended KANU’s long rule in Kenya.

    Cold War with Head of Public Service

    The former Agriculture CS also shed light on his troubled working relationship with Head of Public Service Felix Koskei during his tenure in the ministry.

    “My relationship with Koskei was very bad,” Linturi revealed, as he attempted to clear his name over the controversial fake fertiliser scandal that plagued his time in office.

    This account appears to corroborate former Deputy President Gachagua’s recent claims that the Agriculture Ministry during Linturi’s tenure was effectively being run by the President and the Head of Public Service.

    In a startling revelation, Linturi claimed that on multiple occasions, appointment decisions were made using his name without his knowledge or consent.

    “At one time, Imenti South MP Shadrack Mwiti requested that we retain Jenaro Gatangugi as a director in the Pyrethrum Company. I committed to do that on a Wednesday. However, to my shock, on a Friday, a gazette notice was published with my name firing Mr. Gatangugi,” he disclosed.

    Fertiliser Scandal Clarification

    Addressing the fertiliser scandal that dominated headlines during his tenure, Linturi distanced himself from any wrongdoing.

    “As far as the fertiliser is concerned, I was not involved. After receiving the fertiliser donations from Russia and Algeria, I handed the consignment to NCPB. However, I later learnt that it had been given out as raw material for reformulation with directions from State House,” he explained.

    His account contrasts with recent statements from Agriculture PS Paul Rono, who claimed Kenya received donations of fertiliser raw materials in powder form that were subsequently given to manufacturers through an open tender process for granulation and blending.

    Regrets and Future Plans

    Expressing regret over his support for Ruto in the 2022 elections, Linturi stated, “If I knew he would change, I could have done things differently. I can’t believe that after all the prayers we made, Ruto changed for the worse.”

    The former CS revealed that he is in discussions with other politicians to form a regional political party, asserting that UDA has “significantly lost ground in Mt Kenya region.”

    Looking toward the future, Linturi, who unsuccessfully vied for the Meru gubernatorial seat in 2022, indicated he has several options for 2027 but emphasized his commitment to opposing the current administration.

    “We are now looking for appropriate partners. I wish Ruto all the best. There are no hard feelings. We have crossed the Rubicon. Let’s face off in 2027 as the people decide,” he concluded.

    This dramatic political realignment could signal growing dissatisfaction within President Ruto’s former strongholds, potentially reshaping alliances as the country edges closer to the next general election.

  • Devki Group Allegedly Imported Fake Fertilizer, Repackaged Russian Donation, Claims Gachagua

    Devki Group Allegedly Imported Fake Fertilizer, Repackaged Russian Donation, Claims Gachagua

    In a series of explosive allegations, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and former Attorney General Justin Muturi have accused President William Ruto and his close associates of engaging in shady foreign dealings that undermine Kenya’s national interests for personal gain. Among the claims are the importation of counterfeit fertilizer and the repackaging of donated Russian and Algerian fertilizer, which was allegedly sold to Kenyan farmers at a profit.

    Gachagua, in a revealing interview with KTN on Monday evening, labeled Ruto the “high priest of corruption” and “chief procurement officer,” accusing him of coercing state officials into facilitating corrupt schemes. He alleged that 40,000 metric tonnes of fertilizer donated by Russia and 30,000 metric tonnes from Algeria—intended to be distributed to farmers for free—were instead handed over to Maisha Minerals Limited, a subsidiary of Devki Group owned by Ruto’s business associate, Narendra Raval. According to Gachagua, the fertilizer was blended with fake products and sold to the government at Sh4,000 per unit.

    “Maisha Minerals repackaged the donated fertilizer as Mavuno Fertilizer and supplied it through Mappings Company,” Gachagua claimed. “A report by the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) exposing this was shelved because it implicated Ruto. I have documents to back these allegations.”

    Meanwhile, Muturi alleged that he thwarted a Sh129 billion tree-planting deal with Russian oligarchs, which he claims Ruto pressured him to approve. He further stated that during Ruto’s visit to India—where the controversial Adani business dealings were initiated—the President traveled on a private jet provided by Devki Group chairman Narendra Raval. Muturi said Ruto’s aides briefed him on the Russian fertilizer deal during this trip.

    Gachagua’s Broader Accusations

    Gachagua revisited his fallout with Ruto, claiming tensions emerged a month after they took office when the President reneged on agreements regarding government appointments. “I pleaded with him to retain principal secretaries from Mt Kenya and Rift Valley, but he retained five from his region and only one from mine. That’s when I realized he is deceptive and tribal,” Gachagua said. He recounted how Ruto insulted him when confronted, asserting his authority as the appointing power.

    The former deputy president also accused Ruto of tolerating corruption among his inner circle. He claimed Ruto’s personal assistant, Farouk Kibet, demanded money from individuals seeking meetings with him, a practice Gachagua resisted. “The President told me he had no problem with Farouk making a little money, but I refused to be controlled by a junior officer,” he said.

    Gachagua further alleged that Dennis Itumbi, Ruto’s chief propagandist, sought to dictate his public messaging, a move he rejected. “Itumbi has a private arrangement with the President. He’d interrupt my meetings with Ruto, claiming time was up—a scheme to harass me,” he added.

    On corruption, Gachagua cited an incident in Naivasha where Ruto allegedly pressured Muturi to approve the purchase of 11,000 acres of Kedong Ranch for an industrial park using the Settlement Trustee Fund. “Muturi refused, saying the fund was for settling people, not commercial projects. Ruto called him indisciplined and asked me to warn him, but I supported Muturi,” Gachagua said.

    Foreign Ties and Regional Politics

    Gachagua also questioned Ruto’s foreign policy decisions, alleging that the President’s recognition of Kosovo as an independent state was driven by commercial interests, including a hotel in Mombasa co-owned with Kosovo’s president. He further claimed Ruto has business ties with the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Sudan and has met with M23 rebel officials engaged in conflict with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). “The international community should investigate these relationships,” he urged.

    Commenting on Ruto’s recent tour of the Mt Kenya region, Gachagua dismissed the large crowds as hired attendees. “People were paid to show up. I even participated in mobilizing when I saw money being poured in, but Ruto shouldn’t mistake crowds for support. The region despises betrayal and abandoned him long ago,” he said.

    Ruto Responds

    The allegations come a week after President Ruto addressed his strained relationship with Gachagua in a March 31, 2025, interview. Ruto said tensions arose shortly after taking office due to Gachagua’s frequent clashes with junior officials, including Itumbi, Kibet, and MPs like Ndindi Nyoro and Kimani Ichung’wah. “He dragged the administration into unnecessary confrontations over petty issues,” Ruto said. “I asked him why a Deputy President was quarrelling with bloggers and assistants instead of focusing on delivery.”

    Ruto also criticized Gachagua for failing to promote government projects publicly. “When I served under Uhuru Kenyatta, I was always highlighting development programs. Gachagua never spoke about roads, electricity, or Universal Health Coverage even once in two years,” he said.

    Conflicting Bribery Claims

    Gachagua refuted Ruto’s claim that he demanded a Sh10 billion bribe, pointing to inconsistencies in the administration’s narrative. “Itumbi said I asked for Sh6.5 billion, Ichung’wah claimed Sh4 billion, and now Ruto says Sh10 billion. Even lies need consistency,” he quipped. He argued that if he wanted money, he would have demanded it early in the administration, noting, “It’s a public secret that I funded his campaigns, which is why he chose me as his running mate.”

    As these allegations unfold, they paint a picture of deep divisions within Kenya’s leadership, raising questions about governance, accountability, and the integrity of public resources.

  • Impeachment: Select Committee Clears Linturi In Fake Fertilizer Scandal

    Impeachment: Select Committee Clears Linturi In Fake Fertilizer Scandal

    Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mithika Linturi has been saved from impeachment by the special committee of the National Assembly.

    In the 11-member committee that was selected to investigate the charges against the CS, seven voted to quash the motion that was overwhelmingly approved by MPs.

    Even as the committee retired to decide on the fate of the CS, cracks had already emerged in the 11-member committee with insiders claiming it was strategically constituted to save Linturi.

    The team was divided as those from President William Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance (UDA) who make up the majority had voted to save him while those in the opposition wanted him sent home on grounds that farmers received substandard fertilizer.

    Insiders say that during the report writing stage there was intense lobbying from both sides and under hand-dealings which were cut to try and save Linturi from ouster.

    It is understood that those opposed to his removal were of the opinion that the impeachment motion that was filed by Bumula MP Wamboka Wanami is solely because of his affair with Kitany which played out during the hearings of the proceedings.

    The sources further revealed the focus of the love affair now gone sour during the hearings was to the advantage of Linturi as some of the committee members used the said opportunity to argue in his favour.

    What next?

    The committee chaired by Majority whip and Marsabit woman representative Naomi Waqo that had retreated to Argyle Grand Hotel on Mombasa Road to write its report is expected to table its report today 10 days since it was constituted to allow the House to deliberate on it.

    Had the allegations stood, the National Assembly would have afforded the CS an opportunity to be heard and voted by a resolution of a majority of the 349 MPs in the House, which is 176, to approve the resolution requiring the CS to be dismissed.

    The controversial committee list 

    Even as the committee prepares to table the report dismissing the charges, Mr. Wamboka said that he will be opposing the report when it is tabled in the National Assembly should it exonerate Linturi as it will not be representing the wishes of farmers.

    He raised issues with the composition of the committee saying, it is ironic that the members who voted to reject his impeachment motion were the ones who were investigating the said matter.

    Waqo, Racheal Nyamai (Kitui South), George Murugara (Tharaka), Malulu Injendi (Malava),Kassim Tandaza (Matuga ) and Njeri Maina (Kirinyaga woman representative) who are members of the committee voted against the motion while  Robert Mbui (Kathiani), Tom Kajwang(Ruaraka), Catherine Omanyo(Busia Woman Representative) and Yussuf Farah (Wajor West) were among the 149 members who voted to have Lituri investigated. Ainabkoi MP Samuel Chepkonga’s vote was not captured anywhere.

    While communicating to the House on the composition of the special committee, National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula had said that majority side Kenya Kwanza Alliance, which is dominated by President William Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance (UDA), would have six slots, minority side Azimio la Umoja One Kenya Coalition four and Jubilee Party one slot.

    The list generated by National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah (UDA, Kikuyu) had Ms Waqo, the deputy majority whip, Samuel Chepkong’a (UDA, Ainabkoi), George Murugara (UDA, Tharaka), Malulu Injendi (ANC, Malava), Njeri Maina (UDA, Kirinyaga Woman Representative) and Kassim Tandaza (ANC, Matuga).

    The Azimio side had deputy minority leader Robert Mbui (Wiper, Kathiani), Tom Kajwang’ (ODM, Ruaraka), Catherine Omanyo (ODM, Busia Woman Representative) and Yusuf Farah (ODM, Wajir West).

    The Jubilee Party, though a member of Azimio as per the records at the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties (ORPP) but which Mr Wetang’ula had ruled is a political party while allocating it a chief whip position, had Kitui South MP Rachael Nyamai.

    Curiously, all the six members nominated by Mr Ichung’wah to the committee, with the exception of one, voted to oppose the formation of the committee to investigate Mr Linturi.

    They were Ms Waqo, Mr Murugara, Mr Injendi, Ms Maina and Mr Tandaza. Dr Nyamai, who is allied with Kenya Kwanza, also voted to oppose the formation of the committee. Mr Chepkong’a, who was within the chambers, neither vote for or against the motion and did not record his abstention.

    From the Azimio side, only Mr Kajwang’ and Ms Omanyo voted for the establishment of the committee to investigate Mr Linturi.

    Mr Mbui and Mr Farah neither abstained nor voted for or against the motion and it was not clear whether they were in the chambers or not during voting.

    Bribery

    The decision of the select committee comes amid claims of bribery.

    Lawyer Ahmednasir Abdulahi had claimed that the members had been bribed with Ah5 million each to absolve Linturi of the charges and clear him of involvement in the fertilizer scam.

    “5m × 11=acquittal for Hon CS MITHIKA LINTURI by the Parliamentary select committee. ..that is Kenya for you…a FUCKING CHARADE!” The lawyer had posted on Friday.

    Reacting to the latest development, Ahmednasir reiterated the bribery claims and asserted that he knew how it would’ve ended, “I told you my people…5m×11=Hon Mithika Linturi’s ACQUITTAL! I told you my people!”

    On May 2nd 2024, the National Assembly approved a motion that seeks the dismissal of CS Linturi, who is alleged to have approved the procurement and distribution of fake fertilizer by the National Cereals and Produce Board, has failed to exercise public trust and to carry out the duties in a transparent and accountable manner amounting to gross misconduct and gross violation of the Constitution.

    In his closing statement, CS Linturi, through his lawyer Senior Counsel Muthomi Thiankolu, distanced himself from the subsidized fertliser procurement process. “A cabinet secretary is not directly involved in procurement,” SC Thiankolu argued, placing responsibility on the NCPB Managing Director.

    SC Thiankolu also countered that the allegations as outlined in the motion lacked specifics and a clear link between CS Linturi and the alleged wrongdoing.

  • Select Committee Conclude Linturi’s Impeachment Hearing, Retreats To Write Report

    Select Committee Conclude Linturi’s Impeachment Hearing, Retreats To Write Report

    The Select Committee on the Proposed Dismissal of Cabinet Secretary (CS) for Agriculture, wrapped up hearings today with closing statements from the mover of the Special Motion, hon. Jack Wamboka and the Hon. Franklin Mithika linturi.

    On May 2nd 2024, the National Assembly approved a motion that seeks the dismissal of CS Linturi, who is alleged to have approved the procurement and distribution of fake fertilizer by the National Cereals and Produce Board, has failed to exercise public trust and to carry out the duties in a transparent and accountable manner amounting to gross misconduct and gross violation of the Constitution.

    In his closing statement, CS Linturi, through his lawyer Senior Counsel Muthomi Thiankolu, distanced himself from the subsidized fertliser procurement process. “A cabinet secretary is not directly involved in procurement,” SC Thiankolu argued, placing responsibility on the NCPB Managing Director.

    SC Thiankolu also countered that the allegations as outlined in the motion lacked specifics and a clear link between CS Linturi and the alleged wrongdoing.

    However, Hon. Jack Wamboka, the mover of the dismissal motion, countered that “the responsibility falls to the minister.”

    Hon. Wamboka emphasized the impact on Kenyan farmers. “There are farmers who are affected,” he stated, “Kenyans social economic rights have been tampered with.” He urged the Select Committee “not to turn a blind eye” and uphold the constitution, highlighting “accountability” and the “moral fabric of any society.”

    Senior Counsel Khaminwa, representing Hon. Wamboka, argued that “fake fertilizer was put on the market” and the CS “must be held accountable.” He accused Linturi of trivializing the motion and claimed they had “proved the case that the minister must go.”

    During the meeting, Hon. Naomi Waqo(Marsabit County) gave a ruling regarding admittance of new witnesses. In a close vote , the 11 Member Select Committee opted not to invite the Principal Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture, Dr. Kipronoh Rono and the Managing Director of KEL Chemicals Limited to provide information to the Select Committee.

    In her closing remarks, Committee Chair, Hon. Naomi Waqo stated ,“the closing statements by the sponsor of the motion and the Cabinet Secretary marks the end of the investigation process. On 8th May 2024, we had an opportunity to hear the evidence of the sponsor of the motion, Hon. Jack Wamboka and 5 witnesses and on 9th May 2024, we concluded by hearing the evidence of Hon Mithika Linturi, the CS for Agriculture.”

    Hon. Waqo proceeded to acknowledge the commitment and dedication to duty by Members of the Committee. Adding that, “I thank all the media houses that have been present since this process began and up to today and even after here because I know it is their duty to release the information as needed by citizens.”

    The Select Committee on the Proposed Dismissal of Cabinet Secretary for Agriculture and Livestock Development will prepare a report which will be tabled and considered by the National Assembly on Monday,13th May 2024 in a special sitting.

  • Keroche Heiress Anerlisa Muigai’s Boyfriend Joe Kariuki’s Fake Lifestyle Exposed

    Keroche Heiress Anerlisa Muigai’s Boyfriend Joe Kariuki’s Fake Lifestyle Exposed

    By Vincent Achuka

    The businessman at the centre of the fake fertiliser scandal, Josiah Kariuki Kimani popularly known as Joe Kariuki, spent at least two years in a Tanzanian jail for fraud and at one time pushed a narrative in the media that he owned an airline that did not exist.

    Kariuki has been in the limelight for the last month after his company, Silica Booster Limited, popularly known as SBL Innovate Limited, was exposed by African Uncensored for selling fake fertilizer to farmers across the country.

    Last month, Kariuki appeared at a church service in Nakuru with area senator Tabitha Karanja where they claimed that the businessman is being fought by unnamed people for political reasons.

    “He was implicated as the one bringing fake fertilizer. As a senator whose business has been fought on the basis of politics previously, I saw from a distance that this is a campaign being done by John Alan Namu who has been paid,” said Senator Tabitha at Shabaab Catholic Church.

    For now, it is unclear whether Kariuki’s attempt to use the tried and tested technique of blaming politics by businessmen whenever caught in a scandal will save him.

    What many people do not know, however, is that this is not the first time that Kariuki is finding himself in controversy, even as he puts up a spirited fight to defend himself.

    The businessman who rose within the entertainment circles in Nairobi was first thrust into the limelight as a boisterous music promoter in 2012. He loved selling a larger-than-life persona in the blogs and entertainment sections of the newspapers.

    If faking it until making it refers to a person; Joe Kariuki has been there and done that for years until he became mentioned in what could easily be the Kenya Kwanza government’s first major scandal.

    Before he started selling fake fertilizer in the government scheme under controversial circumstances, Kariuki faked his image as a ‘billionaire music mogul’ between 2012 and 2015.

    Operating from Vision Plaza along Mombasa Road, Kariuki initially sold himself as the owner of Candy n Candy Records, a music label and artist management company.

    At that time, he had just moved back to Kenya from the United Kingdom under controversial circumstances when he was 34. No one knows why he decided to come back to Kenya or what he was doing in the UK.

    However, the official narrative, pushed by Kariuki when he joined the local music business was that he has worked with big record labels like Virgin Records and he wanted to transfer the skills he had learned abroad to assist Kenyan artists.

    Candy n Candy began in Mombasa in 2013 before moving to Nairobi a year later. During its entire existence, the record label never produced any musical hits but pure air.

    Kariuki was however a master salesman who knew how to entice journalists to write fictitious tales showering him with praises. These stories were interestingly, rarely challenged by editors or fact-checked for that matter.

    Like in one article run by popular entertainment website Ghafla in 2016, Kariuki had apparently been named as one of Africa’s Top 40 Inspirational Visionaries by an un-named Rwandan think tank.

    The article did not name who did the poll but said, “Joe Kariuki came second,right behind Tanzania’s maverick President John Pombe Magufuli as one of Africa’s top 40 most inspirational visionaries.”

    “I didn’t see that coming,” Joe was quoted in the article which was obviously fake news but being pushed as a real story.

    “I mean, I’ve had great moments in my life, found many blessings, and achieved fairly good recognition from far and wide but to be mentioned as the second most influential visionary in Africa? 

    “Alongside the likes of President Magufuli, Strive Masiyiwa, and Aliko Dangote? Wow! No one could predict that. I’m still trying to digest the news,” said Kariuki.

    In another such article published by the Star, Kariuki claimed that his record label Candy n Candy had signed among others American rapper Jay Z.

    If you think these claims are outrageous, Kariuki at one time went as far as claiming that his record label had entered into a contract with Mombasa’s Sarova White Sands Hotel to manage a nonexistent nightclub located within the five-star establishment.

    According to the claims which were published by the Standard in 2014, Candy n Candy had been given exclusive rights to manage Rhythm Night Club which had been renamed Candy Rhythm Night Club.

    Apparently, according to the article, the information about Candy n Candy entering into a ‘deal’ with Sarova had been leaked to the press and he was therefore responding to the claims.

    Almost all the articles about him were written in this same manner. And there are dozens of them. Just Google ‘Music Mogul Joe Kariuki Candy n Candy’ and you will see for yourself how one man managed to lie to the whole country through high-grade deceptive marketing.

    “I have nothing to worry about, this is a big recording company with all the machinery needed in terms of the music industry is concerned. 

    “The club sound is proof with a classic VIP room and can host up to 700 fans,” Kariuki told the Standard in the article about his company entering into a deal with the Sarova White Sands Hotel for instance.

    I met Kariuki around 2015 when his snake oil salesmanship was at its peak. 

    At that time he had just signed former Tanzanian Bongo star Mr Nice to his record label. 

    The artist released one song ‘Mama’ in an effort to resuscitate his career but it flopped.

    A colleague called me and said there was a businessman who had started an airline and whether I would be interested in covering him. I agreed.

    As I was waiting for the company car to take me to meet Kariuki, I did a quick background check on him on the internet like any journalist would. 

    Everything I saw about him was marvelous. Apart from his successful record label, the businessman had just launched Candy Empire TV and Candy Empire Radio.

    Once I sat down with him, he gave me a long rags-to-riches story of how he was born in Naivasha and dropped down in form two at Magomano Secondary School in Kinangop before ending up in the UK using a Sh50,000 loan that his father had given him.

    He also gave me an explanation of his experience in the music business and how it had given him millions of shillings and that he was investing in his next venture, an airline called Candy Air.

    He then turned around the screen of his computer and showed me Candy Air’s website which had several airplanes on it, booking procedures, and any other thing an airline should have on the internet.

    When I asked him where the planes were so that I come with a photojournalist to photograph them for the newspaper, he explained that all his planes were all out on assignment across the African continent.

     He promised to have his people call me when they were positioned at Wilson Airport later that week so that we could photograph them.

    We ended that conversation there. A few hours after I got back to the office, Kariuki’s guys started calling me asking about the whereabouts of the article and when it would be published. 

    I explained about our agreement on the photographs but they insisted that I ran the article first using just his photograph.

    I went back to the airline’s website to have a look at the planes again. When I ran their tail numbers to establish ownership, I realised it was all fake. The planes were all registered to other airlines. So I shelved the article to avoid embarrassing myself and my young career.

    Interestingly, days later articles about Kariuki launching an airline started appearing in other news websites.

    Three months after the airline debacle, Kariuki announced that he was running for the Langata Parliamentary seat on a TNA ticket. He had also invested in a multimillion mining venture in Taita Taveta was soon going to unveil TwinTalk; a “Facebook-like” social media platform.

    “I have registered a company under the trademark Hard Assets which now has a licence to mine along the coastal belt. We will be shipping the minerals to Europe where they will be refined and sold to the American gemstone market,” he told the Star on April 15, 2015.

    He then suddenly disappeared from the limelight until two years later on August 17, 2017, when it was announced that Kariuki had been arrested in Tanzania for defrauding Yusuf Mohamed, a Tanzanian businessman Sh13 million.

    He was sentenced to seven years in an Arusha prison but was released in 2019 after winning an appeal. Once back in Kenya, Kariuki ventured into the online forex trading business through a company called 51 Capital Business.

    The company was launched in typical Kariuki style together with another Tanzanian ex-convict Don Bosco Gichana on December 5, 2019.

    “Dressed in a Ksh87,000 Yves Saint Laurent black suit, white shirt, and a red tie, Mr Bosco spoke passionately about the future of forex trading, the benefits of cryptocurrency, the emergence of new economic trends, and the lucrative online forex trading,” reported Business Today about the launch.

    A few weeks after the launch, the Star reported that Joe Kariuki had been named the Best African Forex Trader 2019 by IC Markets, a leading Forex Contract For Difference provider based in Sydney, Australia.

  • 115 MPs Files Motion To Impeach Agriculture CS Linturi

    115 MPs Files Motion To Impeach Agriculture CS Linturi

    Bumula Member of Parliament Jack Wamboka has filed a notice of motion to impeach Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mithika Linturi.

    The motion which is supported by 110 legislators cites that the CS should be removed from office due to gross violation of the constitution and criminal negligence under the Penal Code.

    Linturi becomes the second member of President William Ruto’s cabinet to face such a motion, this is after Embakasi East MP Babu Owino presented a motion seeking the removal of Health Cabinet Secretary Susan Nakhumicha.

    Nakhumicha has been faulted over her handling of the prolonged doctors’ strike that have paralyzed services in public hospitals, respectively.

    Wamboka seeks to edge out the embattled CS over his role in approving the procurement and distribution of fake fertilizer under the National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) channels.

    In the petition for the removal, Linturi is accused of exposing farmers to fraudsters who have hoodwinked them saying the quest for the removal of the Cabinet Secretary is not political or a witch-hunt.

    “I firmly believe that the gravity of this allegations demand swift and decisive action as elected representatives it’s our duty to hold public officers accountable and to safeguard the interests of the people that we serve,” Wamboka noted.

    The Bumula legislator insisted that the Agriculture Cabinet Secretary has treated farmers to a circus which will evidently affect food security in the country.

    “Agriculture is such a key sector, we want to tell the president, please don’t allow one rogue minister to derail your agenda of attaining food security in the country,” the Bumula MP stated.

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    Wamboka confidently stated that his petition holds serious ground for the removal of the Cabinet Secretary urging Speaker Wetangula to pave way for MPs to send Linturi home.

     “The evidence presented before the assembly paints a distressing picture of negligence, mismanagement and potential of criminal activities within the ministry,” he said.

    Laikipia North MP Sarah Korere who promised to second the motion on the floor of the house called upon CS Linturi to resign before the wrath of lawmakers is waged on him during the consideration of the impeachment motion.

    “We want to tell the CS to step aside before we impeach him, even if investigations were to happen, it won’t be thorough if he is still in the office, if investigations will find him innocent, he can always come back,” she said.

    President William Ruto allies who have signed the motion to remove CS Linturi from office include Maryanne Kitany (Aldai),Pauline Lenguris (Samburu MP), Adams Korir (Keiyo North), Gathoni Wamuchomba (Githunguri), James Wamacukuru (Kabete) and Geoffrey Ruku (Mbeere North).

    Notable Azimio La Umoja One Kenya lawmakers include Joyce Kamene (Machakos), Raphael Wanjala (Budalangi ),Otiende Amollo (Rarieda ), Samuel Parashina (Kajiado South) and Adagala Beatrice (Vihiga).

    Others include Stephen Mogaka (West Mugirango,) ,Clive Gisairo (Kitutu Masaba) and Mohamed Adow (Wajir South, ODM), David Pkosing (Pokost South, KUP).

    Article 152

    The Constitution provides for the removal of a Cabinet Secretary under Article 152.

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    The mover of the motion is required to file evidence alongside a list of legislators in support of the bid.

    Speaker of the National Assembly considers the threshold of evidence presented before clearing the matter for tabling.

    Speaker Wetangula’s clearance would pave the way for a 7-day notice with the mover moving the motion within fourteen days.

    The House will then set up a Select Committee upon ascertaining support by a third of its membership.

    The Select Committee will be required to probe the allegations and submit its findings to the House within ten days.

    Where the Select Committee finds ground for removal, the Cabinet Secretary will appear in the National Assembly for a trial.

    The matter will then be settled by a majority vote with the Speaker transmitting the House resolution to the President for action.

  • Firm’s Director Implicate State Officials In Fake Fertilizer Saga

    Firm’s Director Implicate State Officials In Fake Fertilizer Saga

    Kel Chemicals Chief Operating Officer (COO) Devesh Patel has dragged big names in the ongoing probe into the fake fertilizer scandal by parliament.

    Appearing before the National Assembly’s Agriculture Committee, Mr. Patel dragged the names of senior government officials attached to the Office of the President, Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) and the National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) into the scandal.

    Mr. Patel told the John Mutunga-led committee that Kel Chemicals had not entered into any contract with the National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) for the supply of the fertiliser in question.

    He revealed that the tender for the supply of 550,000 bags of NPK 10:26:10 had been awarded to Mems Distributors Ltd but since it lacked capacity, it subcontracted KEL Chemicals to manufacture the fertilizer.

    After securing approval from the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS), it embarked on the manufacture of the first batch of 50,000 bags of 50 kilogrammes each at Sh190,000,000.

    The committee also heard that on March 12, 2024, Ngetich returned with an LPO for the supply of 500,000 bags of NPK fertilizer of 50 kilogrammes each at Sh1.89 billion. The company then commenced the manufacture of the same before it was ordered to cease production of the fertiliser by KEBS on March 22.

    By then, Patel submitted that they had only manufactured 69,670 bags.

    “Therefore, in order to satisfy the contract between Mems and NCPB, the former was under an obligation to source for 480,030 bags…the difference between the deliverable quantities points to the discrepancy surrounding the spiking and adulteration of the company’s products before delivery to the farmers,” said Patel.

    The John Mutunga-led committee, however, pressed Patel to explain how empty bags found their way to KEL Chemicals premises.

    Patel, however, revealed that the bags used for the packaging of the fertiliser were supplied by Supreme Packaging LLP, adding it was possible Mems printed extra bags.

    Two meetings 

    He further told the committee of how he was lured to two meetings in one day by senior government officials whose intention, he said, was to coerce him to take the blame for the fake fertiliser in the country.

    On April 4, 2024, Patel confessed to having received a call from Mrs Loraine Karani who directed that he appear at the NCPB headquarters at 3.30 pm.

    On arrival, he met Ngetich and NCPB Managing Director Joseph Kimote. There, he told the committee he was threatened to refund the money, which had already been paid by Mems.

    Patel and Ngetich were then informed to go to the Office of the President for a meeting at around 5pm. On arrival at Harambee House, they were asked to wait outside as Kimote held a meeting with individuals that Patel later identified as Kipronoh Ronoh, the Agriculture Principal Secretary, Esther Ngari, the KEBS Managing Director, and Juma Mukhwana, the Industry Principal Secretary.

    During the meeting, Patel elaborated on events surrounding the manufacture and supply of the fertiliser and explained the company’s due diligence measures.

    “The Head of Public Service Felix Koskei walked into the meeting at around 7pm and asked me to recant the statements on the circumstances surrounding the distribution of the fertiliser,” said Patel.

    He also revealed that Ngari kept saying, “You are the people making substandard fertiliser. I want you to punish them, Mr Koskei. I’m coming to close your factories.”

    “Mr Koskei thereafter asked for our arrest with Mr Ngetich and we were taken to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (headquarters). We were arrested without being informed of the reason, without legal representation and instructed to write a statement under duress. We were later taken to Muthaiga Police Station until April 5,” stated the operations manager.

    Patel further submitted that on April 6, he was taken to KEL Chemicals plant in Thika by officers from Muthaiga Police Station and officers from DCI. Officials from KRA were also present.

    “After two hours of the group moving around the plant, the DCI team seized the fertiliser of 3,390 bags of 50 kgs each. At around 6.35 pm, I was taken back to Muthaiga Police Station and released on a bond of Sh100,000,” he added.

  • I Was Approached By Powerful Politicians To Kill Fake Fertilizer Story, Allan Namu Reveals

    I Was Approached By Powerful Politicians To Kill Fake Fertilizer Story, Allan Namu Reveals

    Africa Uncensored chief executive and founder John-Allan Namu who is the first witness to appear before the Senate Agriculture Committee revealed that some influential political leaders both outside and inside parliament reached out to him in attempts to convince him not to air an exclusive story on fake fertiliser scandal being witnessed.

    According to Namu, his organisation has been carrying out wide investigation on public procurement since 2018 and that the fake fertiliser scandal cuts across the Uhuru Kenyatta and the William Ruto’s Kenya Kwanza’s administrations.

    Namu was categorical that investigative bodies should look at the issue of complacency among senior officials of state agencies since the issue did not raise concerns among the relevant actors all this time.

    “I would like to inform this committee that politicians across the political divide might have been involved in this fake fertiliser conspiracy, some of them even reached out to me seeking to have African Uncensored not to air this story where the majority of those affected are small scale farmers,” said Namu.

    He said he was ready to provide evidence about the politicians who approached him to kill his story, and was ready to appear in court. He told the committee the report looked at public procurement since 2018 and that the fake fertiliser scandal cut across the previous and current administrations.

    Committee chairman Kirinyaga Senator James Murango said Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mithika Linturi and the chief executive officers of Kenya Bureau of Standards and Kenya National Trading Corporation will appear before it to shed light on prevalent claims of fake farm inputs.

    Murango said the Auditor General, National Environment Management Authority CEO and the individuals mentioned adversely in an expose launched by media investigations team; the African Uncensored, have been invited to appear before the committee to clear the air about the well-executed scandal.

    Murango while terming the fraud as akin to terrorism, charged that action must be taken against the unscrupulous individuals who have not only embarrassed the Kenya Kwanza administration but also posed a threat to food security.

    Samson Cherargei (Nandi) said that the roles of National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB), Nema, KNTC and Kebs in the fake fertiliser scandal should be investigated further since it appears there was a well-organised criminal enterprise.

    “The organisation that has been mentioned adversely by Africa Uncensored for making fake fertiliser has been carrying out its activities openly, the relevant state agencies should come and explain to us why they failed on their duties, heads must roll over this,” said Cherargei.

    Namu told the committee that Kebs and Nema have no capacity to deal with the fake fertiliser scandal since they have staff shortages. He said that creates a lapse which some unscrupulous individuals have exploited.

    The journalist said he has now been vindicated by the current outcry by Kenyans from various parts of the country. “I would like to tell my fellow journalists that they should not be cowed when they are pursuing stories of public interest like the one we did on fake fertiliser, they should stand up to be counted when fighting for the public good,” said Namu.

  • Probe Launched Into Circulation Of Fake Fertilizer After KEBS Exposed SBL-Innovate Manufacturer Fraud

    Probe Launched Into Circulation Of Fake Fertilizer After KEBS Exposed SBL-Innovate Manufacturer Fraud

    The Government has launched investigations into the fake fertilizer scandal that has rocked the country, warning that those found culpable will face the full wrath of the law.

    Through the Ministry of Agriculture, the State was however quick to note the subsidized fertilizer programme that had benefited hundreds of farmers had not been affected by the scandal.

    In the last couple of weeks, reports have emerged that farmers were supplied with fake fertilizer by unscrupulous traders leading to a drop in crop production.

    This week Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) accused a Kenyan-based regional fertilizer merchant of fraud after it emerged the firm supplied substandard fertilizer to the National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB).

    Documents tabled before the National Assembly Agriculture Committee by KEBS showed how SBL-Innovate Manufacturer Limited supplied substandard fertilizer dubbed ‘BL-GPC’ for over a year undetected.

    KEBS said the firm applied for certification on January 13 and secured approval on January 28, 2023.

    KEBS Managing Director Esther Ngari told MPs that initially, the company had complied with all requirements which prompted the agency to issue them permits to supply organic fertilizer but later committed fraud by violating the standards.

    The standards agency certified SBL-Innovate Manufacturer to supply organic fertilizer but the firm supplied diatomite, which relies on a biologically generated form of Silica to enhance soil conditions, to NCPB stores.

    “During our surveillance, we sampled the product that was being sold in agrovets and finally got intelligence that the product was being supplied through NCPB stores. Test reports showed the product failed on organic matter,” Ngari said.

    For months, farmers unknowingly purchased the product bearing KEBS certification.

    KEBS said it launched a probe following a tip-off from the public, seizing 5,840 bags in a surveillance raid.

    Following the intelligence, NCPB sampled the product in over 59 ware stores across the country which led to the suspension of the product permits amid fears that the product may still be in circulation.