Gachagua allies face prosecution over alleged link to protests

Citizens demonstrate along the streets of Nairobi to reject the Finance Bill. June 20, 2024. [Jonah Onyango, Standard]

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has forwarded files recommending the prosecution of two Members of Parliament (MPs) linked to violent protests in June this year.

According to a letter seen by The Standard, the DCI has named Embakasi Central MP Benjamin Mwangi and Embakasi North MP James Gakuya as being involved in the planning, mobilisation, and financing of the protests.

The agency stated that the two, along with others, participated in several meetings held at Hotel Boulevard in Nairobi.

The MPs, who are perceived allies of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, were summoned by the DCI on July 31, where they recorded statements.

However, they refused to submit their mobile phones for forensic examination.

"Efforts are being made to obtain all financial data from the Financial Reporting Centre, Safaricom, and the banks involved in the financial transactions," the DCI said.

The agency has proposed three charges against the MPs including soliciting or inciting others to commit an offense contrary to Section 391 of the Penal Code, and money laundering, contrary to Sections 3, 4, and 7 of the Proceeds of Crime and Anti-Money Laundering Act.

Others implicated in the case include former Embakasi West MP George Theuri, former Nyeri Town MP Wambugu Ngunjiri, and Gachagua's private secretary, Pius Munene.

The legislators are linked to violence witnessed during the anti-Finance Bill protests that rocked the country from weeks.