Senators deny soliciting bribes from businessman Francis Mburu

The Senate Public Accounts and Investments committee has denied reports claiming that some of its members attempted to solicit Ksh.100 million from businessman Francis Mburu to write a favourable report on the Ruaraka land saga.

Reports indicate that Mr. Mburu, who claims to be the owner of the disputed Ruaraka land, submitted an audio clip to the Director of Criminal Investigation where three Senators were trying to extort money from him.

The alleged incident is said to have occurred at a top city hotel where Mburu apparently declined to dish out money.

Addressing the media on Monday, Senator Moses Kajwang, the committee chairman, accused Mr. Mburu of trying to divert attention and frustrate the ongoing probe.

“It is not surprising that Francis Mburu has chosen to distract attention from his alleged criminal acts. Alongside his partners in crime, they have attempted all tricks to frustrate our inquiry to suppress the truth,” said Kajwang.

The Senator called on Senate Speaker Ken Lusaka to convene a session of the Powers and Privileges Committee and summon Mr. Mburu for him to substantiate the bribery allegations.

“We recommend that action be taken against any Senator who may have breached parliamentary priviledge. Similarly, firm action should be taken against Francis Mburu if these allegations are substantiated and are found to be in contempt of court,” added Kajwang.

The Senate and National Assembly have been investigating circumstances under which the government paid Mr. Mburu Ksh.h1.5 billion for the land where Ruaraka High and Drive Inn Primary schools stand. The land in question is said to be public land.