I'm worth Sh471 million, including family business shares and property - Kinyanjui

Trade Cabinet Secretary nominee Lee Kinyanjui has disclosed that his net worth is valued at approximately Sh471 million.

Kinyanjui, who appeared before the Committee on Appointments chaired by Speaker Moses Wetang’ula for approval hearings, said his net worth includes shares in family businesses worth around Sh399 million and property valued at Sh80 million. He also mentioned having a loan of Sh8 million.

“I also own an apartment worth Sh80 million, and I have a loan of Sh8 million,” he added.

In response to Kinyanjui's declaration, Speaker Wetang’ula commented, “For a former governor, that is very modest, I must say.”

Kinyanjui assured the committee that, if confirmed, he would give his best to serve in the role.

“I know these opportunities do not come every day, and as a person who has been in public office, I will not run away from challenges. The more challenges there are, the more justification I will have to turn around the tide,” he said.

Kinyanjui emphasised the importance of teamwork and collaboration with Parliament, recalling his past experience of working closely with MPs.

“Teamwork is very critical for success, and I will be working closely with those in the office. I pledge to do my best for Kenya,” he stated.

The nominee also addressed his previous criticism of the Kenya Kwanza administration, calling it “positive criticism.”

“There is a difference between being critical of policies and being critical of a government. If, for example, we say pending bills are affecting business, that is not an affront to the government. It is a plea from the business community to ease cash flows,” Kinyanjui said.

He further explained that he resigned from the Ubuntu People’s Forum immediately after his nomination to the Trade CS position.

“I have resigned from the Ubuntu party, but my heart is very connected to its philosophy of ‘I am because you are,’” he said.

Kinyanjui previously contested the Nakuru gubernatorial position on a Jubilee ticket but lost to UDA’s Susan Kihika. Following his defeat, he formed his own political outfit, the Ubuntu People’s Forum.