Rashid Echesa Accuses William Ruto’s Aide Farouk Kibet Of Being Behind His Legal Troubles

• Kenya Water Towers Agency chairman Rashid Echesa accused Farouk Kibet, a close aide to President William Ruto, of orchestrating his recent arrest and troubles
• He warned Kibet against misusing his influence and power, urging him to remember their shared history and loyalty during the presidential campaign
• The former sports Cabinet Secretary cautioned Kibet against mistreating him, reminding him of their past alliance and support for President William Ruto's ascent to power

Didacus Malowa, a journalist at TUKO.co.ke, brings over three years of experience covering politics and current affairs in Kenya.

Kakamega - Kenya Water Towers Agency chairman Rashid Echesa has called out those behind his recent woes.

Echesa was been arrested and detained over allegations of extorting Kakamega governor Fernandes Barasa.

According to the politician's lawyer, Danstan Omari, Echesa had been detained at the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) headquarters.

Who is behind Echesa's arrest

During his prayer day on Friday, April 12, the former sports Cabinet secretary said Barasa doesn't wield the influence to have him arrested.

Echesa claimed President William Ruto's long-term aide, Farouk Kibet, is to blame for his arrest and succeeding tribulations.

The former CS pointed out the close ties he shares with Kibet, highlighting their work together during the 2022 presidential campaign trail.

"I want to declare that this Barasa has neither the power nor the capacity to arrest me and put me behind bars. The person who helped Fernandes Barasa is my friend, with whom I campaigned for President William Ruto for votes, and his name is Farouk Kibet," he said.

What is Echesa's warning to Farouk

He urged the powerful Kibet not to misuse the power and influence he has courtesy of the head of state.

Echesa reminded Kibet that they share a long history compared to Barasa, whom he claimed they had just gotten acquainted with due to aligning interests.

"I want to tell you, my brother Farouk Kibet, the president has given you a significant role in his office, please do not use the authority the president has given you to mistreat me. I was one of those who stood by you when we were campaigning for the president.

This Barasa, you now claim to be your friend because of a small business you have with him in the county. Do not forget the friends you struggled with when seeking the government you have today," Echesa added.

Echesa in critical condition

During his detention, Omari raised alarm over Echesa's deteriorating health while in the police cells.

Omari, alongside lawyer Cliff Ombeta and Kakamega senator Boni Khalwale, highlighted Echesa's worsening condition.

The lawyer revealed that Echesa had recently undergone a major medical procedure and sought official documents to secure his release.

Proofreading by Asher Omondi, current affairs journalist and copy editor at TUKO.co.ke.