NAIROBI, May 15, 2025 – Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has officially launched the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP), marking a significant step in his political roadmap to challenge President William Ruto in the 2027 General Election.
The launch, held in Lavington, Nairobi, saw Gachagua unveil the party’s interim leadership and debut rallying songs aimed at galvanizing support across Kenya.
The DCP, whose slogan “Skiza Wakenya” (Listen to Kenyans) emphasizes responsiveness to citizens’ needs, has submitted its leadership roster to the Registrar of Political Parties for ratification.
Notably, the lineup excludes current elected leaders, signaling Gachagua’s intent to build a fresh political movement.
Among the top appointees is former UDA Secretary General Cleophas Malala, named deputy party leader, alongside other political heavyweights from the defunct UDA and Jubilee parties.
“This is a party for all Kenyans, built on the principles of listening, uniting, and redeeming our nation from economic oppression,” Gachagua declared during the launch.
He outlined the DCP’s focus on addressing punitive policies, improving healthcare, and “redeeming the payslip” for struggling workers.
Gachagua during the launch of his new party in Nairobi.
The interim leadership includes former Cabinet Secretary Mithika Linturi as National Organizing Secretary, former Laikipia Woman Representative Catherine Waruguru as National Women Leader, and David Mingati from Kajiado as National Chairperson.
Other key figures include Hezron Obanga (Interim Secretary General, Kisii), Anne Mutua (National Treasurer, Machakos), and Peter Mwathi (Deputy Chairperson, Strategy, Kiambu).
A caucus of eminent persons will be chaired by a former Starehe MP, further strengthening the party’s structure.
In a vibrant display of political branding, DCP introduced two rallying songs—one in Kiswahili and another in English—blending secular and gospel tones to resonate with diverse Kenyan audiences.
The Kiswahili song features lyrics like “Komboa payslip, Okoa Wakenya, Unganisha Kenya!” (Redeem the payslip, Save Kenyans, Unite Kenya!), calling for unity against economic hardship.
Another chant, “Uongozi wa kuaminika, tunaskiza Wakenya!” (Trustworthy leadership, we listen to Kenyans!), underscores the party’s citizen-centric message.
Supporters also sang, “Maisha yangu ni wewe, hata kama sina pesa” (My life is you, even if I have no money), reflecting the party’s populist appeal.
The launch contrasts sharply with the 2021 unveiling of UDA, which emphasized Christian messaging.
Gachagua’s DCP instead blends cultural and political themes to address pressing issues like economic inequality and democratic representation.
Political analysts view the move as a direct challenge to President Ruto’s administration, with Gachagua positioning himself as a unifying figure for disgruntled voters.
As the 2027 election approaches, the DCP’s formation marks a bold pivot for Gachagua, whose fallout with Ruto has fueled his political reinvention.
With a diverse leadership team and a message tailored to Kenya’s economic challenges, the DCP appears poised to reshape the country’s political landscape.
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.
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.
PatrickKiburi Kilemi, the Principal Secretary, Ministry of Co-operatives and Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), has been adversely mentioned in the alleged bribery scandal in parliament over the exoneration of Agriculture CS Mithika Linturi in the fake fertilizer saga.
The National Assembly’s special committee committee probing Linturi’s impeachment has been accused of being compromised and taking bribes to clear the CS.
Sources claim that each of the members were offered with up to Sh5 million for a favorable report.
Its reported PS Kiburi who is a close confidant of CS Linturi, allegedly played as the intermediary between the compromised MPs and the accused CS in negotiating for bribes.
Kileleshwa MCA Robert Alai made the claim insisting, ‘PS Patrick Kiburi played like himself” loosely translated to mean he facilitated the transfer of cash to the MPs.
Linturi survived impeachment after the 11-member committee determined that the grounds of the impeachment motion were not substantiated.
Seven of the 11 MPs voted to save the CS.
A call for Probe
A section of lawmakers now want thorough investigations into claims that money changed hands with a view to exonerate Linturi from blame in the fake fertiliser scandal probe.
In particular the MPs demanded that the Powers and Privileges Committee as well as other investigative agencies such as the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) be seized of the matter as it had put Parliament to shame.
The calls for the investigations came on a day fresh details emerged over how a senior official working in parliament allegedly met Linturi on May 1 immediately after Wetangula had approved the impeachment motion, to deliberate on how to save him from ouster.
Sources privy to the intrigues, revealed that the said official assured the CS that resources would be mobilised to ensure that he is saved from ouster.
It was understood that apart from the said meeting, a lot of other underhand dealings as well as meetings were held in high offices in government where it was agreed that Linturi should be saved as he was not to blame for the alleged scandal.
After the committee presented its findings to the House on Monday, Rarieda Member of Parliament Otiende Amollo claimed to be aware of corruption among the members.
“I have spoken to some of the members of the select committee and a disclosure has been made to me that questions and allegations of impropriety and misconduct by some members of the committee,” he told Parliament.
“It is necessary that such an issue is referred to the powers and privileges committee first because if there is any truth in it would result in the report being annulled. It would not be right to discuss that report.”
Speaking separately, Nominated MP John Mbadi was categorical that EACC should be called in to investigate the matter which has put parliament to shame. He said it is regrettable that Sh5 million was being mentioned as the buying price for members to save Linturi.
He said: “I think those are not issues that you can just wish away. In fact, the amount has been mentioned and there is consistency in the amount. This matter needs to be dealt with by the Powers and Privileges Committee and it may even go to the extent of asking EACC to investigate because it is very unfortunate and if it happened then the Members affected have a lot of explanations to do.”
He added: “The day before yesterday (Monday), the figure of Sh5 million has been mentioned, on Monday the same amount was still being mentioned. To me that is a serious matter more so that this is an issue that is of serious interest to the country in terms of compromising the food security.”
‘I was offered the bribe’
Busia Woman Rep Catherine Omayo who was part of the special committee has claimed that someone attempted to bribe her to vote in favor in the impeachment case against Linturi.
In an interview with Citizen TV, Omayo stated that most of the committee members tasked with determining Linturi’s fate were approached with bribes to sway their decision in favor of the CS.
“Someone came to me with Ksh.2 million, and another came saying the money had increased to Ksh.3 million because the report against Linturi was hot. At some point these people asked me to state what I wanted to favour the CS,” Omanyo said.
“The other person asked me to say what I wanted at that time so that we go where the person is or he will come here.”
She revealed that the committee members were given bribes, but some declined to be compromised.
List of the select committee
1.Naomi Waqo- Marsabit Woman Rep
Robert Mbui –Kathiani MP
Rachael Nyamai- Kitui South MP
Samuel Chepkonga- Ainabkhoi MP
George Murugara-Tharaka MP
T.J Kajwang- Ruaraka MP
Jane Maina- Kirinyaga Woman Representative
Moses Injendi – Malava MP
Kassim Tandaza –Matuga MP
Catherine Omanyo- Busia Woman Representative
Yussuf Farah- Wajir West MP
The committee held twelve sittings to investigate the proposed dismissal of the Agriculture and Livestock Development CS.
According to Naomi Waqo the chairperson of the committee, four members dissented and made it publicly known to the committee.
However, seven out of the 11 committee members investigating the fake fertilizer scam voted to save Linturi.
While presenting the report, Naomi Waqo informed the House that the Committee found that allegations against the Cabinet Secretary were unsubstantiated.
This meant that there will be no further proceedings on the matter.
The Motion for the proposed removal of the CS was moved by Bumula MP Jack Wamboka, on the grounds of alleged gross misconduct.
Also cited was the gross violation of the Constitution and reasons to believe the CS committed a crime under national law.
In response to the outcome of the impeachment, Wamboka accused MPs of betraying Kenyans by letting Linturi off the hook over the fake fertilizer scandal.
“The unanimous decision of 149 members representing over 30M Kenyans cannot be overturned by the influenced 7 members of the select committee. Their decision is a betrayal in the city to the hardworking Kenyans in our villages,” he said.
Despite the setback dealt by the select committee’s decision, Wamboka has stated that he will not tire until justice is served to Kenyan farmers and Linturi is dismissed.
“We will not relent in pursuit of this fake fertilizer scandal that has rendered farmers hopeless and endangered the country’s food security,” Wamboka said.
“There is no doubt that all evidence and witnesses proved beyond reasonable doubt that Linturi as the head of the docket was liable for the mess, scam and failures.”
Minority Leader Opiyo Wandayi described the committee’s decision as a case of the House’s ruling being overturned by a group of seven people.
“There is a higher moral responsibility on the cabinet secretary and the appointing authority, following the overwhelming 149-against-36 vote in this House last Thursday. This matter should not even have gone to the select committee stage,” said Wandayi.
He urged Parliament to refuse to recognize Linturi as the Minister for Agriculture until President Ruto yields and dismisses the CS.
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.
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.
Kenya is aiming at becoming the regional economic powerhouse of Africa, in its ambitious strategy, the country is opening up ways for investors to make their investments and in line making all mannerisms of attractive investment deals.
Shadowy Businessmen
In one of its latest moves to bolster economic relations and eliminate double taxation, in the middle of this mega deal are two shadowy businessmen Oleg Vodchits and Alexander Zingman that Kenya Insights has covered extensively and explained how their business deals with other African countries have been marred by controversies, corruption scandals leading to the question of their main intent as they turned their horns to Kenya. Hold on to this we will come to tackle them in details later on, but first, the details of the Kenya, Belarus deal.
Double Taxation Agreement (DTA)
The Kenyan government, under President William Ruto’s administration, has announced its commitment to finalizing a Double Taxation Agreement (DTA) with the Republic of Belarus. The DTA, which will focus on taxes on income, is being spearheaded by the National Treasury on behalf of the Kenyan government.
The National Treasury has extended an invitation to stakeholders to provide their input on the draft agreement, which can be obtained from the National Treasury offices during working hours. This move is seen as a crucial step in the process of engaging the public and stakeholders in the development of this significant agreement.
The announcement comes at a time when economic ties between Kenya and Belarus are growing stronger. Several Belarusian businesses have already entered into agreements to supply plant machinery and invest in Special Economic Zones in Kenya. These deals, backed by both governments, are expected to generate over Ksh70 billion for the Belarusian tycoons involved.
The DTA, once in force, will ensure that Belarusian investors are exempt from paying income tax in Kenya, as they would have already paid taxes in their home country. This development is particularly significant given the recent controversy surrounding a Ksh31 billion machinery deal between Kenya and Belarus. Despite the controversy, Kenya has shown its willingness to continue engaging with the Belarusian government.
In addition to the machinery deal, Kenya has also signed a Ksh39 billion agreement with a Potash Company to invest in the Dongo Kundu Special Economic Zone. The Belarusian company is expected to set up a fertilizer plant in the coastal economic zone, further solidifying the economic partnership between the two countries.
This move by the Kenyan government to eliminate double taxation with Belarus is seen as a strategic step towards fostering economic growth and attracting foreign investment. It is also a clear indication of Kenya’s commitment to strengthening its economic ties with Belarus, despite the controversy and condemnation the European country has faced from the West.
Controversial Belarusian Businessmen
Behind the curtains, the administration of Kenyan President William Ruto is reportedly establishing ties with two Belarusian businessmen, Oleg Vodchits and Alexander Zingman, who have a history of controversial business dealings in Africa.
Closely linked to the Belarusian dictator Aleksandr Lukashenko, these shadowy businessmen have being integrated into the Kenyan government as quasi middlemen in Kenya posing as “advisers for the Gulf countries,” despite their checkered past.
Their first prominent debut was when Zingman and Vodchits were listed as part of a delegation from then Kenyan Minister of Commerce Moses Kuria during his official trip to Qatar in February 2023 where he met several high-ranking characters, such as the general manager of the Qatar National Bank, Abdulla Mubarak Al-Khalifa.
While their official duties weren’t disclosed, it was clear they were establishing themselves in the core circles of Kenya’s establishment. This controversial embrace of questionable characters was seen by many in the diplomatic community as a heavy gamble that would by itself pose potential diplomatic risks associated with dealing with a country under sanctions from Western nations.
The two businessmen have a history of controversial business dealings in Africa. In 2021, they were detained for almost two weeks in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) by intelligence agents who questioned them about their ties to former president Joseph Kabila. They were also suspected of attempting to sell weapons to Kabila, which led to their arrest.
Zingman is very “close to former Zambian President Edgar Lungu, “friend of Moses Katumbi”
Zingman was arrested in mid-March 2022 with two of his associates by the ANR when he went down from a plane in Lubumbashi from Harare. The ANR had suspected him that the Belarusian had helped Kabila to weaken his successor Félix Tshisekedi. And then Zingman was released following pressure from Qatar, Kagame’s ally. Zingman is an arms dealer who allowed the sale of military equipment to Zambia under Edgar Lungu and Zimbabwe.
Media shy Oleg Vodchit seen in a rare photo with his partner Alexander Zingman meeting Equatorial Guinea leader.
Alexander Zingman is Honorary Consul of Belarus in Zimbabwe. He is also known to be close to the Belarusian regime of Alexander Lukashenko. Olga Shevko, representative of Aftrade DMCC, was present in Harare during the latter’s visit to Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa on January 31, 2023. On this occasion, nearly $66 million in agricultural supplies were promised by the Belarusian government in a series of contracts signed by Olga Shevko.
Aftrade and MTZ, one of Europe’s biggest tractor exporters, will supply at least 3,575 tractors to Zimbabwe between 2023 and 2024. Aftrade has distribution rights for MTZ equipment in the country.
The tractors are leased to Zimbabwean farmers through the state-owned farm lender AFC as well as CBZ. MTZ has set up a local service centre, under Bison Agro.
RentCo Africa Limited
In Kenya, Kenya Insights has information that leasing company RentCo Africa Limited will be working with the shady company already the group’s CEO and founder, Robert Nyasimi has sealed the deal, details on this to be handled separately.
Zingman, in particular, has been involved in several high-profile arms deals in Africa, including the sale of helicopters from Russia and the contract for the supply of Sukhoi Superjet 100 aircrafts.
Controversial Sh31B Tractor Deal
While Zingman appears to be orchestrating deals for his countrymen, it’s believed he stands to benefit the most from a multibillion dollar sale deal in the agricultural sector.
He is also believed to be brokering a Sh31 billion tractor deal between Kenya and Belarus, a move that has raised eyebrows due to Belarus’s status under Western sanctions.
The Kenyan government’s decision to engage with these controversial figures is seen as a risky diplomatic gamble. The United States, United Kingdom, and European Union have imposed sanctions on Belarus due to its support for Russia in the Ukrainian war. By dealing with Belarus, the Kenyan government is potentially exposing itself to diplomatic tensions with these Western powers.
Kenyans viewing one of the tractors during trade fair held in Belarus last year.
Aftrade DMCC’s complexity
Moreover, the details of the $31 billion tractor deal are shrouded in mystery. The Kenyan government has not disclosed the source of funds for this massive project, and the involvement of a Dubai-based entity known as Aftrade DMCC, owned by Zingman, adds another layer of complexity.
It is in the UAE that Aftrade DMCC is registered, which specializes in sales of Belarusian equipment to Africa and the co-owner of which is Zingman.
Zingman’s company which is registered in UAE, is in another “gray” zone where it is impossible to get intelligible information about someone’s business.
Zingman is believed to have brokered the procurement of helicopters from Russia and the contract for the supply of Sukhoi Superjet 100 aircrafts.
On paper, Zingman’s name is associated with the fashionable restaurant Falcone in Minsk, Belarus and resides in Raubichi and owns several properties there. His partner, Elizaveta Denisevich, and son, Denis Zingman, are running the family business. Zingman’s private jet is reported to have frequently flown to and from the shelters of African countries, carrying on board government leaders and businessmen.
Last year, Aftrade DMCC supplied nine tractors to Kenya, and already in this there was information about the plans of the Kenyan government to purchase not only tractors in Belarus, but also forage harvesters and dump trucks. The volume of the proposed transaction, in which Aftrade DMCC as a dealer, pulls several hundred million dollars. The Kenyan media made a fuss about this, but it dissipated, and the plans remained.
Former Trade Minister Moses Kuria and Agriculture CS Mithika Linturi in Belarus, we have attended the prestigious 33rd International Specialized Exhibition BELAGRO –2023.
Kenya’s Agriculture Minister Mithika Linturi who was involved in crafting the deal, recently survived an impeachment in a controversial vote marred with bribery claims, Linturi had been accused of playing role in supplying fake fertilizer to farmers in a scandal that ran into billions. Moses Kuria, the then Trade Minister who was at the helm of the negotiations was also transferred to a different ministry following endless scandals.
Belarus’ exports to African countries, the first half of 2022, in million dollars
– Egypt – 69
– Zimbabwe – 27
– Angola – 18
– Mali – 14
– Ghana – 8
– South Africa – 1.3
– Tunisia – 1
– Ivory Coast – 0.9
– Morocco – 0.4
– Kenya – 0.3
– Malawi – 0.07.
In Africa, by the way, there are more than fifty states, and Belarus, as can be seen from the statistics, exported its goods to only 11. Apparently, only in those where Zingman, the honorary consul of Belarus in Zimbabwe and the hero of the news about Lukashenko’s business enturment, arms trade and gold mining in Africa, set foot.
Kenya-Belarus Trade History
Zingman lit up at the meeting of the Belarusian Foreign Minister with the President of Kenya in Nairobi, taking the place of the Belarusian ambassador, judging by the seating position. At the same time, the volume of Belarusian exports to Kenya in the first half of 2022 reached only 300 thousand dollars. In previous years, exports sometimes reached 14 million, and sometimes they were zero, as in 2011.
It is possible that part of Belarusian exports to Kenya, as well as to other African countries, is hidden in exports to the UAE, ensuring its rapid growth.
Otherwise, it is difficult to explain the presence of Zingman at the meeting of the Foreign Minister of Belarus with the President of Kenya. The head of state promised tractors from Belarus a great future in Africa, which means good commissions for Aftrade DMCC. The Kenyan media wrote about $5 million, which already means zero price to Lukashenko’s loud statements that all intermediaries for Belarusian products should be removed.
Everyone may have been cleaned, but their own, as we can see, are not. Although the fight against intermediaries itself is as stupid as hinging the responsibility for export development to embassies and personally diplomats.
It is curious that the Embassy of Belarus in Kenya opened only in 2018, moving from the Ethiopian capital Addis Ababa, where it closed, although our countries have been in diplomatic relations since 1993.
In addition to Kenya, the embassy is responsible for cooperation with Ethiopia, Tanzania, Uganda and the African Union, which is clearly too over the background of two and a half diplomats working in the diplomatic mission. Not counting Zingman and Sheiman, who close the whole of Africa.
This move by the Ruto administration to embrace the shady characters raises questions about the government’s commitment to transparency and its willingness to engage with controversial figures for economic gain.
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.
A background check letter from the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission(EACC) to Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) is frustrating the chances of Bruno Mugambi Linyiru from occupying the Director General’s position in the authority’s body.
In a letter seen by Kenya Insights written to AFA Board chairman Cornelly Serem dated February 29, EACC said Mr. Mugambi has a pending case arising from his arraignment in Milimani Court in 2015.
The commission said Mr. Mugambi was charged before Nairobi Milimani Anti-Corruption Court 1 vide ACC 20/2015 with the offence of willful failure to comply with the law relating to procurement contrary to Section 45 (2) (b) as read with Section 48 of the Anti-Corruption and Economic Crimes Act, 2003.
“This was relating to allegations of procurement irregularities at the Geothermal Development Company. The matter is pending before court,” the letter said.
The letter axed Mr. Mugambi for lack of integrity “Further, the Commission wishes to draw your attention to Section 12A of the Leadership and Integrity Act, 2012, which places a mandatory requirement on any person seeking an appointment to public office to submit their Self-Declaration Form to the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission. Kindly ensure that the successful candidate complies with this requirement and inform this office.”
“The information provided herein is based on records available as of February 29, 2024,” EACC said.
EACC said it did not undertaken any investigations or recommended prosecution of two other candidates; Christine Chesaro Rotich and Helen Jemosbei Kemboi.
Agriculture CS Mithika Linturi.
However, there are fears that the anti-graft body’s decision is being ignored. Insiders are saying that the Agriculture CS Mithika Linturi is relentlessly pushing for Mr. Mutambu’s appointment claiming that President Ruto has given a go ahead. Linturi is being accused of favoring Mr. Mugambi on tribal basis both being from the same Meru community.
This is despite the president’s pronouncements of zero tolerance to corruption. The saga also arises at a time when the country is grappling with the fake fertilizer crisis that Linturi himself has been sweating to handle.
The GDC tender scam
In 2015, the parastatal’s board dismissed six senior managers including Mr. Mugambi over a tender scam.
The board said its decision was based on EACC findings which recommended surcharging the six as well as subsequent criminal prosecution together with suspended GDC managing director Silas Simiyu for alleged irregular procurement of rig-moving services.
The EACC found the entire tender committee culpable due to glaring irregularities that exposed taxpayers’ funds to wanton embezzlement.
The report said the rigs meant for drilling and harvesting of steam were acquired by the government to ease the cost of geothermal development but were yet to harness adequate steam wells as earlier planned.
It recommended that the entire tender board should be jointly charged with abuse of office and must be surcharged to refund all money lost during the tender award.
The EACC said the tender committee should be investigated for awarding Bonfide Clearing and Forwarding Ltd a contract to move geothermal rigs and other equipment in 40 lots, with each costing Sh42 million, in the Menengai drilling area within a radius of about 500 metres, bringing the total cost to Sh1.7 billion.
The six were accused of inflating the rig movement charges from Sh15 million to Sh42 million per rig, totalling Sh1.7 billion.
Supreme Court
On January 27, 2023, the Supreme Court ordered the stalled Sh1.7 billion graft case to proceed to its conclusion.
The Director of Public Prosecutions recommended charges against company secretary Praxidis Siasi and members of the GDC tender committee in 2015 but the matter didn’t take off owing to petitions challenging the decision.
Some of them contended that the trial was grounded on non-existent offences.
The then High Court Judge Odunga barred the DPP from prosecuting the case.
He declared their prosecution unconstitutional. Aggrieved with the decision, the DPP and the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission appealed.
The Court of Appeal reinstated the matter but the appellants Praxidis Namoni Saisi, Dr Peter Ayodo Omenda, Nicholas Karume Weke, Caleb Mbaye, Abraham Kipchirchir Saat, Michael Maingi Mbevi, Godwin Mwawongo, Linyuri appealed at the Supreme Court.
The apex court in ordering the case to proceed said there was nothing unpleasant in relation to the charges levelled against the appellants.
The court dismissed claims of their constitutional rights being violated after they failed to prove allegations of malice and discrimination.
“It is our considered opinion that it would be logical that the appellants let the trial commence and conclude, during which trial they may raise all the issues they have as against the law under which they are charged. If successful, it is only then that they will pursue their rights on appeal,” the court said.
AFA board advertised for the position of director general in December last year.
The board said it was seeking to replace the outgoing Director General Willis Audi.
Through a notice in local dailies, AFA called on all eligible candidates to submit their applications.
Audi was appointed the authority’s acting DG in May 2023, after Beatrice Nyamwamu exited.
Nyamwamu was an agricultural resource and policy expert and one of the few women serving in the chief executive role at State corporations in the country.
She had become the second acting director-general to exit AFA in two years.
AFA is a state corporation that regulates the crop sector in Kenya to ensure compliance with the regulatory framework, standards, and codes of practice.
The supremacy battle between Trade & Industry CS Moses Kuria and Agriculture CS Mithika Linturi goes way beyond the importation of GMO maize where exploitative businessmen allied to the Kenya Kwanza government are set to benefit to selfish interests.
Kuria has a bizarre love for controversies with his loose tongue and has this time round he over-stepped his boundaries by engaging Linturi in an open war over the importation of maize.
CS Linturi says the decision on importation of the controversial GMO maize lies with his office. He clarified that it is his ministry (Agriculture) that is mandated with import decisions after establishing the deficit that the country is facing in order to determine the number of bags to be shipped into the country.
“I am not aware of what Kuria said… I am the custodian of statistics on how much food we require in this country and what we consume every day. Right now my technical people have worked on all the deficit in terms of maize, beans and rice,” said Linturi.
Linturi made his remarks after Kuria claimed that the country will import 10 million bags of GMO maize to bridge the local deficit and reduce the price of flour that has now risen to Sh213 for a two-kilogramme packet.
The Agriculture CS promised to make a comprehensive statement regarding food situation in the country and what needs to be done before the week ends.
His beef with Kuria is coming out in public just days after a group of MPs from both Azimio and the ruling coalition of Kenya Kwanza raised questions over the firms set to benefit from the importation.
The MPs argued that Kenyan farmers risk incurring major losses as the market will be flooded by cheap imported maize amid claims that powerful individuals have already lined up to cash in at the expense of local farmers.
The feud between CS Kuria and Linturi is informed with greed as both of them are fighting to oversee the importation to pocket kickbacks or to use proxy firms to cash in.
The MPs also challenged Kenya Kwanza government to provide information on how the firms were identified as they claimed that the administration is being blackmailed by foreign powers that are looking for a market for their multinational companies.
Kenya’s Prime Cabinet Secretary, H.E Musalia Mudavadi [p/courtesy]MPs allied to Opposition Chief Raila Odinga have also criticized the importation as they termed the decision “insincere and incoherent with the promises President Ruto made during the campaign period.
“Why has there been no effort to get ordinary maize from other parts of the world or was importation of GMOs part of the pre-election deal between President William Ruto and foreign backers?” Hon Opiyo Wandayi posed.
Opposition politicians argue that the current famine situation is being used as an excuse in a plot by highly placed government officials to defraud the country.
Linturi has been named in many scandals including a case where he forged signatures to secure a Sh530 million bank loan using properties belonging to his estranged wife, Marianne Kitany.
And Moses Kuria in 2021 told BBC that he pocketed $1000 bribe to back former Kipipiri Mp Amos Kimunya appointment as the Majority Leader in the National Assembly.
The battle between Kuria and Linturi over who should oversee the importation of the maize forced Prime Cabinet Secretary H.E Musalia Mudavadi to weigh in as he clarified that the decision on imports is a mandate of the Ministry of Agriculture.
“The issue of importation of maize should be guided by a survey by the Ministry of Agriculture to find out if there is a deficit of the grains… it is agriculture docket that will issue an importation order looking at the food situation in the country,” said Mudavadi.
