Gachagua Faces Sharp Criticism from Top Businessman Over Bamas Sale

The government has firmly denied claims that the Bomas of Kenya has been sold to a foreign investor, stating that it remains government property and is only undergoing modernisation.

On Sunday, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua alleged that the cultural heritage site had been auctioned to a Turkish national with the approval of the Cabinet. His claims sparked public outrage, with many questioning the government's intentions.

However, Principal Secretary for Culture and Arts, Ummi Bashir, dismissed the allegation stating that Bomas of Kenya had not been sold to anyone.

"I am shocked by the claims made by the former Deputy President. The government has not sold Bomas of Kenya to any individual or foreign investor," Bashir clarified.

She further explained that the ongoing renovations were part of a long term government plan to upgrade the facility into a worldclass conference centre. The refurbishment, she added, was approved by the Cabinet in 2023, and the site has remained government property since its establishment in 1971.

The controversy drew reactions from prominent businessman Gideon Kitheka who strongly defended the government's position. Kitheka accused Gachagua of misleading the public with baseless claims, insisting that the former Deputy President was spreading falsehoods.

Despite the government's reassurances, the allegations have stirred political tensions, with Gachagua insisting that the sale was approved against his objections in the Cabinet. His claims have been met with strong opposition from government officials, who maintain that the facility will remain public property.