Head of presidential special projects and creative economy Dennis Itumbi has dismissed former deputy president Rigathi Gachagua’s claims that Bomas of Kenya has been sold to a Turkish national, terming the claims as false, reckless, and deliberately misleading.
In a statement on Monday March 10, 2025, Itumbi noted that Gachagua’s remarks alleging that the facility has been sold to a Turkish national are not only baseless but also a desperate attempt to mislead the public and derail national progress.
“Bomas of Kenya, an institution that has remained largely unchanged since the 1970s, is being transformed into a world-class international conference and cultural centre.
“This ambitious modernization is not just necessary, but it is long overdue. Kenya is taking bold steps to position itself as Africa’s premier destination for high-level conferencing, entertainment, and cultural exhibitions, aligning with global standards to attract both regional and international events,” read part of Itumbi’s statement.
He added that contrary to Gachagua’s statements, there has been no discussion, proposal, or intention to sell Bomas to any foreign entity.
“Instead, the government is investing in the facility’s expansion to include: An 11,000-seater modern arena, providing a much-needed plug-and-play venue for Kenya’s thriving creative industry.
“The facilities include a Commercial Presidential Villas Street, offering premium accommodation and amenities for high-level delegates and earning revenue for Kenya.
“A revitalized cultural hub, ensuring the preservation and promotion of Kenya’s rich heritage alongside modern development,” he noted.
At the same time, the head of presidential special projects emphasized that Gachagua has repeatedly claimed that he opposed various government projects in Cabinet, assuming that no one would challenge his fabrication due to the confidential nature of Cabinet discussions.
“Fact: Mr. Gachagua never opposed the modernization of Bomas. In fact, he is on record in Cabinet supporting its fast-tracking, acknowledging that it was unfortunate that such a premier facility had been neglected for decades,” he stated.
“Gachagua must have forgotten that cabinet meetings are now digitized, and the record shows that he barely contributed in Cabinet meetings. Speaking less than seven times in his entire period as DP and at no time opposing anything,” he added.
In addition, Itumbi explained that Gachagua’s ability to “oppose” anything in Cabinet was fundamentally hindered by his own distractions.
“While his colleagues engaged in serious national deliberations, he was often preoccupied with his phone, scrolling through WhatsApp group chats, memes, and online gossip.
“For someone who spent Cabinet meetings chuckling at Internet banter, it is laughable to suggest he played a substantive role in policy discussions,” Itumbi narrated.
According to Itumbi, the modernization of Bomas is a symbol of Kenya’s commitment to growth, innovation, and cultural excellence.
