Says drug dealing allegations were misuse of dossier from the American Embassy to Nairobi by former VP George Saitoti
By THEDISPATCH.DIGITAL TEAM
On Sunday, Mining Cabinet Secretary nominee Hassan Ali Joho disclosed his net worth at Ksh2.36 billion while appearing before the Parliamentary Committee on Appointments. The former Mombasa Governor revealed that his wealth largely comprises real estate holdings and investments in various companies.
Joho detailed that his personal assets, separate from his family’s, are valued at Ksh2,361,332,249. His portfolio includes properties in Mombasa, Vipingo, Nairobi, and Malindi, along with shares in several companies and family businesses, which he insists are not government-linked. “My family is in the logistics business and they are extremely busy,” Joho stated, emphasizing their independence.
During his vetting, Joho assured the committee that he would not flaunt his wealth if appointed, focusing instead on serving the people. “You must make them feel you are one of them. Opulence for me is a no. When I am working, I am working, when I am enjoying myself in my own setup at home, that’s fine and that’s another story,” he stated.
This response came after Kikuyu MP Kimani Ichung’wah expressed concerns about Joho’s perceived opulence, evident on social media platforms like TikTok. Joho explained that he owns several valuable watches, which he has been wearing since before his political career. “I enjoy wearing it (watch). Even this morning, I was debating whether I should wear a watch or not. It was a big debate at home,” he told the panel.
Addressing allegations of drug trafficking, Joho refuted the claims, criticizing the selective use of the 2013 Saitoti dossier, which he argued lacks evidence. “On the drug baron issue, the irony for me is when you want to pick records selectively,” he said, referring to the late Professor George Saitoti’s report from the American Embassy. Joho emphasized that thorough investigations found no evidence against him.
Recounting his political journey, Joho highlighted the intense scrutiny he faced, especially during his tenure as governor in 2013. “I am not a fool. I come from a family that is blessed with businesses, and I am thankful for what I have,” he remarked. Joho asserted that as a prominent critic of the Jubilee government, he endured various personal and professional attacks, yet survived due to his lawful business practices. “I want to assure Kenyans that I do clean businesses, that are visible, and can be audited,” he stated.
As Joho transitions into a potential new role within the government, he brings extensive experience and leadership to the Ministry of Mining, Blue Economy, and Maritime Affairs, following his nomination by President William Ruto.