Mining Cabinet Secretary Ali Hassan Joho has called on a human rights group to provide evidence supporting allegations that he is involved in drug trafficking.
Joho, responding to a court challenge against his appointment, dismissed the claims as unsubstantiated and vague.
“The allegations of drug trafficking are completely unfounded and generalized to the point where they are impossible to address properly,” Joho stated.
“I deny these accusations and challenge the petitioner to provide concrete proof.”
The Genesis for Human Rights Commission had filed a case arguing that Joho’s appointment was unlawful.
The commission seeks to annul his appointment and initiate a new selection process.
They allege that the Appointments Committee ignored several memorandums which purportedly highlighted Joho’s unsuitability for the position.
Caleb Ngwena, the head of the commission, claimed that Joho lacked the necessary academic qualifications and referenced a dossier from the late George Saitoti that allegedly implicated Joho in drug trafficking.
Ngwena also cited concerns about alleged economic crimes.
Joho assumed his role on August 9, succeeding Salim Mvurya, in a ceremony overseen by President William Ruto.
In response to the legal challenge, Joho has requested the court to dismiss the case.
His lawyer, Paul Buti, emphasized that Joho’s academic qualifications have already been validated by the courts.
Joho asserts that he meets all the constitutional requirements for his position and has urged the court to reject the petitioner’s claims, stating that no constitutional violations have been demonstrated.
The court, under Justice Mugambi, is set to review the case and issue further directions on October 17.
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