During the deputy presidential debate held at the Catholic University for East Africa (CUEA) in Nairobi, Martha Karua, the Azimio deputy presidential candidate, disclosed her net worth. Karua stated:
“I think just about Sh150 million and that is because the Sh56 million I had declared in 2013 has appreciated because of the inflation.”
She emphasized that her net worth had not increased due to new acquisitions but as a result of inflation.
Over her career, she has served in various capacities, including:
- Minister for Justice and Constitutional Affairs (2005–2009): During her tenure, she played a critical role in advancing judicial reforms and upholding the rule of law.
- Member of Parliament for Gichugu Constituency (1992–2013): She was one of the longest-serving MPs in Kenya and consistently advocated for women’s rights and social justice.
- 2022 Presidential Election: She was the running mate of Raila Odinga under the Azimio la Umoja coalition in Kenya’s 2022 general elections, positioning herself as a champion for integrity and accountability.
No New Properties or Land Acquisitions
Martha Karua clarified that she has not acquired any new properties since 2013 and described herself as someone who does not crave material possessions.
“I haven’t had any new properties, but I’m a person many may not understand. I have no thirst for land, I’m not thirsty for worldly goods,” she said.
Land Ownership
Karua denied allegations of owning public or private land in Kirinyaga County. She asserted:
“I do not have an iota of public land anywhere,” in response to claims made by Rigathi Gachagua, the UDA running mate, that she owns land in South Gariama.
She added that the current administration in Kirinyaga should take her to court if such claims were true. Karua revealed that the only land she owns in Kenya is:
- The piece of land where her house in Nairobi is situated.
- A portion of her father’s land for her upcountry home.
Funding of Azimio Campaigns
When asked about the source of funding for Azimio campaigns, Karua stated that the coalition relies on donations.
“We had a fundraiser just the other day but the donations are a continuous process. The Azimio campaign secretariat is keeping tabs,” she noted.
Addressing Corruption Allegations
Karua also addressed allegations regarding a donation from BAT during her 2013 presidential campaign. She clarified:
“It was money paid to my campaign secretariat by a donor, not paid to my personal account.”
She explained that the funds were later revealed to have come from BAT but maintained that she never mixed campaign funds with her personal money. She further added:
- The BAT matter was investigated in the UK and the case was closed.
- In 2016, she challenged the DPP to probe the matter, and no criminal liability was found against her.
Conclusion
Martha Karua’s net worth of approximately Sh150 million reflects a modest portfolio, with no significant new acquisitions since 2013. She owns limited land in Nairobi and on her family’s property. Her transparency in wealth declaration and campaign financing underscores her commitment to accountability and integrity.
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