KTDA Zone Three directors defend Kirundi, call for probe into Ksh. 256M kickback claim

The directors representing Kiru, Gatunguru, Kanyenyaini and Githambo tea factories said Thursday that no verified evidence had been presented to demonstrate that an excess payment was made during the 2024/2025 fertilizer procurement process.

Speaking to journalists at Kiru Tea Factory, the directors urged the public and the media to allow investigations to run their course, warning against condemning individuals before the process is concluded.

Kirundi confirmed that he had voluntarily honoured a summons by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) and presented himself to cooperate with investigators.

He, however, expressed concern that he was not allowed to record a statement despite appearing before the investigators.

“I have nothing to hide, and I remain ready to assist investigators at any time,” Kirundi said.

The directors questioned why Kirundi appeared to be the only one summoned among the 12 national board members and why his statement was not recorded after he honoured the summons.

They said the circumstances had raised concerns over the fairness of the investigation and called on the DCI to provide clarity.

The directors urged investigators to expedite the probe and establish the facts without fear or favour, saying tea farmers deserved full accountability over funds allocated to the sector.

They warned that prolonged uncertainty over the matter was creating unnecessary anxiety among farmers and other players in the tea industry.

The directors also called for investigations into separate allegations of an attempted Sh256 million kickback linked to the government's fertiliser subsidy programme.

They claimed that some individuals had sought substantial commissions from the deal, alleging that Kirundi refused to approve or support the payments.

“We are confident the truth will come out,” the directors said, maintaining that their primary interest was protecting farmers and ensuring every shilling allocated to the tea sector was properly accounted for.

The leaders pledged to cooperate with all lawful investigations and continue advocating for transparency and accountability within the Kenya Tea Development Agency (KTDA).