President Uhuru Kenyatta on Monday, October 4, responded to a report by the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ) dubbed the Pandora Papers linking his family to accounts holding billions of shillings in tax havens. 

In a statement, the President - although not comprehensive - assured the country and the world at large that he will issue a detailed response once he jets back into the country from a state tour in Barbados.

He, however, noted that the Pandora Papers and any other audits will set the record straight and unveil secrets for those who cannot explain sources of their wealth. 

"These reports will go a long way in enhancing the financial transparency and openness that we require in Kenya and around the globe. The movement of illicit funds, proceeds of crime and graft thrive in an environment of secrecy and darkness," stated the President.

"The Pandora Papers and subsequent follow-up audits will lift that veil of secrecy and darkness for those who can not explain their assets or wealth. Thank you." 

The Pandora Papers linked the Kenyatta family to offshore bank accounts and companies valued at over Ksh3.3 billion.

ICIJ obtained over 12 million leaked files that were perused over by 600 investigative journalists. The leaked documents alleged that Kenyatta’s family led by Mama Ngina Kenyatta, his son Uhuru and the siblings amassed wealth offshore specifically Panama and the British Virgin Islands (BVI). 

At the centre of the purchases and financial transactions was a Panamanian law firm identified as Aleman, Cordero, Galindo & Lee (Alcogal), whose documents revealed that the first family own at least seven companies and foundations overseas. Among them is a home in Central London, United Kingdom. 

“The records show that the family-owned at least seven such entities, two registered anonymously in Panama and five in the British Virgin Islands,” details ICIJ.

Other than Kenyatta, among the 35 world leaders mentioned in the leaked papers were President Ali Bongo of Gabon and the King of Jordan and former British Prime Minister Tony Blair. 

President Uhuru Kenyatta (front), First Lady Margaret Kenyatta and the President's aide de camp at State House, Nairobi

PSCU  Kenyans.co.ke