NAIROBI, Kenya, Jan 22 – Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has reignited controversy over the 2022 General Election. He accused Suna East MP Junet Mohamed of betraying the late opposition leader Raila Odinga and sabotaging his presidential bid.
During a digital media interview, Gachagua said Junet misused the trust Raila placed in him. Moreover, he claimed Junet mismanaged Azimio la Umoja campaign funds.
“I saw Junet abusing me the other day, and that is okay. He stole Raila’s campaign money and failed him. He betrayed Baba when he was alive, and he is betraying him even in his death,” Gachagua said. “He has a big mouth for abusing people, yet he is doing no work as a legislator, just theft.”
Alleged Mismanagement of Campaign Funds
Gachagua alleged Junet embezzled money set aside for election agents in key regions. He added this affected Raila’s campaign results.
“Someone trusted you with money to cater for agents, and you ate the money. Then the candidate fails. That is very bad. When called for a TV interview, all you do is abuse leaders,” he said.
Furthermore, Gachagua argued Junet’s actions went against moral and religious principles.
“It is not in conformity with the Islamic faith. You were trusted. You are given money to help a presidential candidate, then you pocket it and cause him to fail. That is wrong.”
Warning Over Personal Attacks
Gachagua also issued a warning to Junet. Despite his impeachment, Gachagua said he remains a significant political force. He insisted President William Ruto owes much of his success to his support.
“Even Ruto, whom you are now working with, was elected because of my influence. Without my input, he would not be president,” he said.
He further stated he would mobilize voters in 2027 to hold leaders accountable.
“I will look for the same votes to remove Ruto from power, and there is nothing you will do. Continue abusing us, it is okay. We will stand with truth and justice.”
Sifuna Echoes Similar Concerns
Gachagua’s remarks followed accusations from ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna. Sifuna claimed Junet played a key role in Raila’s failed 2022 bid. He alleged Junet received campaign funds from former President Uhuru Kenyatta meant for Azimio. However, the funds were reportedly not remitted, leaving critical constituencies unguarded.
Junet Mohamed Responds
Junet Mohamed dismissed the claims. He blamed the funds’ management on Muhoho Kenyatta, Uhuru’s brother. Junet also said his ongoing role as Leader of Minority in the National Assembly shows Raila continued to trust him.
“The funds were handled through a restricted office in Westlands, inaccessible to most party officials, including Raila,” he explained.
