President Uhuru Kenyatta has broken his silence nearly a day after a mega leakage that dubbed him as Client 13173 revealed that he had stashed billions of money in offshore accounts together with members of his family.
In a statement that was issued by State House on Monday, Uhuru said that he was on tour and would issue a comprehensive response once he returned to Kenya. He however did not deny or accept that he had stashed the money in the accounts.
According to the BBC, President Uhuru and six of his family members are among leaders who have been exposed in one of the biggest leaks of financial documents.
“Kenya President Uhuru Kenyatta and six members of his family secretly owned a network of offshore companies. They have been linked to 11 firms – one of which was valued as holding assets of $30m (Sh. 3.31 billion),” the BBC said, quoting the the files from offshore companies, dubbed the Pandora Papers.
The statement by State House read as follows:
His Excellency President Uhuru Kenyatta’s attention has been drawn to the ongoing media coverage of the International Consortium of Investigative Journalism (ICIJ) Pandora Papers leaks and would like to make the following intervening response:
“My attention has been drawn to comments surrounding the Pandora Papers. Whilst I will respond comprehensively on my return from my State Visit to the Americas, let me say this:
BBC Exposé: Uhuru, his family members have billions in offshore accounts
“That these reports will go a long way in enhancing the financial transparency and openness that we require in Kenya and around the globe. The movement of illicit funds, proceeds of crime and corruption thrive in an environment of secrecy and darkness.
“The Pandora Papers and subsequent follow up audits will lift that veil of secrecy and darkness for those who can not explain their assets or wealth. Thank you.”, His Excellency President Uhuru Kenyatta.
