Senators are pressing President William Ruto to disclose the “new information” that led to the cancellation of contentious deals between state agencies and the Adani Group. The deals, which had sparked public outrage and protests, including an airport workers’ strike, were terminated following Ruto’s directive during his State of the Nation Address.
The President cited investigative findings and input from partner nations as reasons for halting the agreements, including a KSh 95 billion contract for power transmission lines and ongoing negotiations for upgrades at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.
Lawmakers, however, demanded clarity, questioning the nature of the evidence that prompted Ruto’s reversal, especially after his earlier defense of the deals. Kitui Senator Enoch Wambua and Migori Senator Eddy Oketch called for transparency, alleging that the Adani contracts were questionable and possibly detrimental to taxpayers.
Their concerns are fueled by allegations from U.S. prosecutors that Adani Group paid $250 million in bribes to secure solar energy contracts in India. Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna echoed suspicions surrounding the lack of disclosure in the deals, while others, like Nominated Senator Tabitha Mutinda, praised Ruto’s decision as proof of responsive leadership.
Senators urged the government to reveal all canceled agreements, associated costs, and due diligence processes undertaken, to rebuild public trust in its commitment to accountability.
