Hassan Ali Joho, the Cabinet Secretary nominee for Mining, Blue Economy, and Maritime Affairs, has refuted allegations of gaining prominence and wealth through drug trafficking.
During his vetting by the Committee on Appointments, Joho addressed the 2010 drug trafficking scandal, originally brought to light in a report by the US Embassy and presented in Parliament by the late Internal Security Minister George Saitoti. John emphasized that an extensive multi-agency international investigation cleared his name, finding no evidence to support the accusations.
John clarified, “The late Saitoti returned to Parliament with a detailed report from the investigation, which conclusively stated that no evidence was found against me.”
The former Mombasa Governor insisted his wealth results from legitimate business ventures, urging the public to recognize the subsequent report that exonerated him. He expressed frustration over the lingering doubts and asserted his family’s integrity in business.
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“I come from a family blessed with businesses,” Joho stated. “We engage in clean, auditable, and visible business operations. If the initial report is mentioned, the follow-up report that cleared us should also be highlighted.”
Joho dismissed claims linking his family to the jewelry business, specifying their involvement in logistics, real estate, and trading. He firmly denied any government collaborations in their business ventures, promising continued independence from government contracts.
“My family is not in the jewelry business. We operate in logistics, real estate, and trading sectors,” Joho confirmed. “We have never worked with the government and will continue to maintain this stance.”
Joho’s statements aim to dispel the longstanding allegations and reinforce the legitimacy and transparency of his business dealings as he seeks approval for the Cabinet Secretary position.
