The Bomas of Kenya. Photo/Kenya Wildlife Tours
By Newsflash Writer
The controversy surrounding the alleged sale of Bomas of Kenya has ignited a political storm, with conflicting statements from former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and government officials.
While Gachagua insists that the iconic cultural center has been sold, the government has strongly denied the claims, leaving Kenyans questioning who is telling the truth.
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Speaking at a public event on Sunday, Gachagua claimed that Bomas of Kenya had been secretly sold, warning that the government was engaging in dubious deals at the expense of national heritage. “Bomas has been sold, just like many other national assets that are being quietly disposed of. This is a betrayal of the Kenyan people,” he stated.
Swift response
However, in a swift response, Culture and Heritage Principal Secretary Ummi Mohammed Bashir dismissed Gachagua’s claims as misleading. “Bomas of Kenya remains a national heritage site, and at no point has the government considered selling it. These rumors are baseless and meant to cause unnecessary panic among Kenyans,” she stated in an official press release on Monday.
Echoing the government’s stance, digital strategist and Ruto ally Dennis Itumbi also released a statement refuting the allegations. “The government has not sold Bomas, and there are no plans to do so. This is just another attempt to mislead the public and stir political emotions,” Itumbi wrote on social media.
Kenyans divided
The conflicting narratives have left Kenyans divided, with some demanding more transparency from the government while others accusing Gachagua of playing political games. Analysts argue that the controversy is part of the ongoing political tension between the former deputy president and President William Ruto’s administration.
Kiprotich Mutai, a political commentator, noted, “This is not just about Bomas. It’s about the larger political fallout between Gachagua and the current administration. His claims should be investigated, but at the same time, we must scrutinize the government’s response.”
As the debate rages on, Kenyans are left wondering who to believe. With Bomas of Kenya holding historical and cultural significance, many are calling for transparency and an official audit to settle the matter once and for all.
