Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku has dismissed claims that public funds were used to finance the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) campaign during the Ol Kalou by-election, insisting the resources came from the party and its supporters.
Speaking on Monday, July 20, Ruku estimated that about KSh100 million was spent during the campaign period.
However, he maintained that the money was mobilised through UDA and contributions from well-wishers who backed the party’s candidate, and not from government coffers.
Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku. Photo: Courtesy.
The Cabinet Secretary further stressed that the government does not have access to public resources for use in political campaigns, reiterating that state funds cannot legally be diverted for electoral activities.
His remarks come amid heightened scrutiny over the conduct of the Ol Kalou by-election, which was marred by allegations of violence, intimidation and the presence of armed individuals.
Meanwhile, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has launched investigations into incidents of violence and disruption reported during the by-election.
In a statement issued on Sunday, July 19, the agency said detectives were examining reports involving armed and hooded individuals who were allegedly active during the electoral period.
According to the DCI, investigators are following multiple leads using forensic analysis, digital evidence, witness statements and other investigative techniques to establish the circumstances surrounding the incidents and identify those responsible.
The agency also stated that the investigations would extend to anyone found to have planned, financed, incited or directly participated in the alleged criminal acts, regardless of their political affiliation or public office.
The DCI reiterated its commitment to ensuring that all those implicated are held accountable through the legal process, maintaining that no individual would be shielded from prosecution based on their status or position.
