What You Need to Know
Mathira MP Eric Wamumbi has announced plans to escort the family of the late Nyeri governor Nderitu Gachagua to State House this week amid an inheritance dispute involving former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. Wamumbi emphasized his role in facilitating the meeting and addressing the family’s concerns, particularly regarding land and burial issues.
Africa-Press – Kenya. Mathira MP Eric WamumbiMathira Member of Parliament Eric Wamumbi has said he will escort members of the family of the late Nyeri governor Nderitu Gachagua to State House this week.
This follows an inheritance dispute allegedly involving former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
Wamumbi dismissed claims that he had interfered in the former Deputy President’s family affairs, insisting he had no prior contact with the family.
“Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, I have not interfered with your family affairs. I have not met your family members. I have not met the family of the late Nderitu Gachagua. I had not met them, and I have not met them. And so, you lied,” he said.
He, however, said the family later reached out to him seeking assistance after the allegations were made.
“But after you mentioned me, I now want to state categorically that the family of your late brother reached out to me. I have since spoken with them, and they have asked me to facilitate a meeting at State House,” Wamumbi added.
According to the MP, he consulted President William Ruto, who approved the request, noting that the family are Kenyan citizens entitled to be heard.
Wamumbi said the family hails from Mathira Constituency, which he represents, and that he has a responsibility to listen to all his constituents.
He added that he would assist where necessary, particularly on matters relating to land and burial issues linked to the dispute.
Wamumbi confirmed that he has already spoken to the family and will accompany them to State House during the week.
The Legislator emphasised that the meeting will be conducted openly and during the day, dismissing claims of any secret night arrangements.
“They have shared documents with me which point to the challenges they have faced. While I will not disclose the contents, it is clear that the family has gone through a very painful period,” he said.
On Saturday, Gachagua defended the process, stating that the administration of the estate is being carried out in accordance with his late brother’s will.
“The law of succession is handled by courts of law. If anybody is dissatisfied with what is happening in a succession implementation, you go to court,” he said.
He explained that the dispute relates to the estate of his late brother, who passed away in 2017 and left a detailed will outlining how his wealth should be distributed.
According to Gachagua, the will identified beneficiaries and their respective shares, with the estate set to be distributed among 21 individuals after the sale of assets and settlement of liabilities.
“Some were getting 10 per cent, others 5 per cent, others 2 per cent or 3 per cent, all clearly indicated in the will,” he said.
According to Gachagua, three executors were appointed to oversee the process, including the deceased’s lawyer, a long-time friend, and a family member, with instructions to implement the will as written.
President Ruto pledged justice for the family of the late Nderitu Gachagua amid an ongoing dispute over the administration of the deceased’s estate.
Speaking on Sunday in Nakuru, the President said the matter is both a legal and moral issue, invoking biblical teachings on the protection of widows and orphans and vowing that justice would prevail.
“Continue with the insults, but the wealth of widows and orphans you must return… Widows and orphans cannot defend themselves, but we shall speak on their behalf,” he said.
The late Nderitu Gachagua served as the governor of Nyeri County until his death in 2017. His estate has been the subject of a legal dispute, with claims regarding the distribution of his wealth as outlined in his will. The will specifies beneficiaries and their respective shares, leading to tensions among family members. The ongoing situation highlights the complexities of succession laws in Kenya and the emotional toll such disputes can have on families, particularly in high-profile cases involving public figures.
