A document claiming that the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) has demanded an explanation from Kericho Governor Erick Mutai is fake.
The press release shared on social media indicated that the ruling party had demanded accountability for the money that had been contributed to the Londiani accident victims.
“As a party, we are alarmed by the news of the alleged theft of the fundraised money meant for the victims of Londiani accident linked to certain individuals connected to the county government of Kericho. In view of the foregoing, we call upon our investigative institutions and other relevant government organs to liaise with their counterparts so that this matter that has the potential to undermine Kenya Kwanza integrity in the eyes of the international community and at home is brought to a speedy conclusion,” the statement read in part.
“In the same vein, we call upon Dr Erick Mutai, Kericho governor, to immediately clear the air over these allegations that seriously undermines the rule of law in Kenya. He owes it to our nation, our people and party to account for any allegation of criminality that has probable consequences that threaten the peace and security in our nation.”
The Londiani accident happened on June 30, 2023, claiming 53 lives, while 24 sustained injuries. At least five are still in hospital.
On July 4, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua led a fundraising event at Londiani playground, where a total of Ksh14.5 million was raised.
Gachagua said that families that lost loved ones would receive Ksh300,000 while those who were injured would get Ksh200,000.
The money was partially used to compensate the families, with some of it used to settle hospital bills and other utilities.
Following the expenditure, questions have been raised over how the money was spent, with several allegations of embezzlement levelled against Kericho county government officials.
However, in a statement through their verified Facebook page, UDA termed the press release as “fake”.
“Fake circulation,” the party, led by President William Ruto, captioned the statement.
The same was echoed by UDA secretary-general Cleophas Malala, who also flagged the statement as fake on his official Facebook page.
The statement indicating that UDA party has asked Kericho Governor Dr Erick Mutai to explain the alleged loss of funds meant for Londiani accident victims is, therefore, FAKE.
This fact check was published by Business Today with support from Code for Africa’s PesaCheck and African Fact-Checking Alliance.
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