Speaker of the National Assembly Moses Wetang'ula has reacted to remarks made by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who recently advised Kenyans in the diaspora to halt sending money back home.
On Friday, July 25, Wetangula urged those overseas to continue supporting the country’s economic health through foreign exchange remittances.
He emphasized that the funds sent by Kenyans abroad are directed entirely to their families and not intercepted by the government.
“He doesn’t understand the significance of diaspora remittances. No Kenyan abroad sends money to the Government of Kenya,” Wetangula stated.
The Speaker explained the positive impact of these inflows on the economy, noting that the Central Bank of Kenya exchanges the dollars for Kenyan shillings, helping stabilize the foreign exchange market.
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“They send money to their families and friends, who use it to invest, build, and grow the economy. That is what stabilizes our foreign exchange,” he added.
Wetangula’s remarks follow controversial comments made by Gachagua during his two-month visit to the United States.
While addressing the Kenyan diaspora, Gachagua encouraged members of the Mt Kenya community abroad to suspend sending money home until the country's leadership changes.
He claimed the current administration had failed economically and accused government figures of trying to isolate him politically.
“I want to tell you this government has failed economically. We have held back our money back home, and I encourage you to do the same,” Gachagua stated.
The remarks have faced backlash from several other leaders, including Kapsaret MP Oscar Sudi, who accused him of dividing Kenyans.
“You want to tell people from the mountain to keep their money and wait for you until 2027? Why would you say that?” the MP questioned.
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