Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has claimed the National Infrastructure Fund Bill could enable election rigging. He made the remarks on Thursday, March 5, while responding to journalists.
A journalist asked whether he trusted the government’s explanation for creating the proposed fund. Gachagua dismissed the explanation and questioned President William Ruto’s credibility on the matter.
He argued that the government cannot be trusted with a massive financial fund outside strict oversight. Gachagua warned that the proposal could create room for misuse of public resources.
Gachagua alleged that the Ksh5 trillion expected from the fund could influence voters. He claimed the money might support bribery efforts during the August 2027 elections.
He argued that the fund would operate without strong parliamentary oversight mechanisms. According to him, such financial power could easily distort the electoral environment.
The former deputy president insisted that Parliament should maintain strict control over large financial initiatives. He warned that removing oversight increases the risk of financial abuse.
Opposition Leaders Criticise the Bill
Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka urged lawmakers to reject the National Infrastructure Fund Bill entirely. He described the proposal as constitutionally defective and weak on governance safeguards.
Kalonzo said Parliament should protect the Constitution by blocking the proposed law. He insisted that the bill creates unnecessary duplication within government financial systems.
DAP-K leader Eugene Wamalwa also criticised the proposal and raised concerns about transparency. He announced plans to challenge the bill through a court petition.
The proposed law seeks to establish an independent National Infrastructure Fund for development projects. The fund would mobilise private capital and non-traditional financing sources.
Officials plan to attract pension funds, collective investment schemes, climate financing, and sovereign wealth investments. The government argues that the fund will accelerate infrastructure development without increasing national borrowing.
If Parliament approves the bill, the fund will gain powers to borrow money. The entity will also sign contracts and acquire movable or immovable property.
Opposition leaders insist the fund must remain under strict parliamentary oversight. They argue that any financial structure managing trillions requires maximum accountability.
Critics warn that weak safeguards could expose public resources to misuse. The debate continues as lawmakers review the bill and consider its broader economic and political impact.
About The Author
