William Kabogo: I have never dealt in drugs business

ICT Cabinet Secretary Nominee, William Kabogo, has firmly refuted longstanding allegations linking him to drug and substance trafficking.

While speaking in Parliament during his vetting process on Tuesday, the former Kiambu Governor seized the moment to clear his name and distance himself from the claims that he said have haunted him all his life.

"I want to put it on record that I have never dealt in drugs of any kind in all my life," stated Kabogo in response to a question raised by Suna East MP Junet Mohamed.

Kabogo further invited Kenyans to examine the contents of the dossier that was presented by former Kajiado North MP and Minister for Internal Security, the Late Hon. George Saitoti in the 10th parliament claiming that it does not carry any weight as evidence in a court of law.

"The Police carried out a thorough investigation on this matter and even tabled a report in parliament vindicating me of any involvement," said Kabogo, adding that he would stand trial in any court to answer the charges.

The accusations against Kabogo first surfaced in a dramatic parliamentary session on December 23, 2010, when the late minister George Saitoti, named four members of parliament as suspected drug dealers.

Kabogo, who was part of the individuals named, was then serving as the parliamentary representative for the Juja constituency.

"I chose to name these individuals because there has been a persistent demand by members of parliament wanting to know who the influential figures behind this trade are," said Saitoti after dropping the bombshell.

Then Prime Minister Raila Odinga further revealed that he had officially received the documents listing the suspected individuals from the USA's Ambassador to Kenya Michael Ranneberger.

Other parliamentarians who were named in the inquest include former Makadara MP and Natrobi Governor Mike Sonko, former Kisauni MP and Mombasa Governor Ali Hassan Joho, and former Kilome MP Haron Mwau.