William Ruto’s Son-in-Law Alexander Ezenagu Defends Himself Against Allegations of Illegal Funding of His Businesses
Ezenagu challenged anyone to provide evidence to the allegations that public funds were diverted to some listed companies, some of which are affiliated to him, by the government.
In a statement published on his X account on June 3, since deleted, the businessman, married to June, President Ruto’s daughter, responded to the accusations made against the companies, accusations published by blogger Cyprian Nyakundi.
In his defence, Ezenagu said he was ready to shut down all companies affiliated with him if it was proven that public resources had indeed been diverted to his companies.
Ezenagu further highlighted his achievements and career, asking the blogger to check his background and resume before making such allegations.
Ezenagu challenges to provide evidence of allegations
“If you can prove to me that one shilling of public money went to these companies, I will close them all down. What should the children do? Disappear? Run away? Before you answer, check my biography and CV. I am a graduate of Cambridge University and a Doctor of Laws from McGill Law School,” he said.
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Ezenagu made the remarks in response to allegations that several listed companies affiliated with President Ruto’s family were being funded with public money.
The allegations suggested that resources from the Kenyan Youth Fund were being diverted to these companies by the government.
“These entities are diverting public funds meant for youth to sponsor events and clubs, thereby draining resources from the ailing Kenyan economy,” the allegations stated.
Ezenagu, a Nigerian businessman and lawyer, caused a stir in Kenya in 2021 when he married June, President Ruto’s eldest daughter.
Career and appointments
He is the founder and principal consultant of Sapient Consulting Group, a full-service professional services firm with offices in Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania and the Democratic Republic of Congo, among others.
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The Nigerian is a law professor with a career spanning over 13 years across different continents and holds a doctorate in civil law from McGill University, Canada.
In September 2023, Ezenagu was appointed Director of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) Policy and Development Centre at Strathmore University Business School and a Senior Research Fellow at the institution.
“At Strathmore University Business School, Dr Ezenagu will lead the AfCFTA Policy Centre in its mission to become a premier institution dedicated to promoting research, disseminating knowledge and building capacity in trade, policy and investment,” Strathmore said in a statement.
“His exceptional background in international corporate taxation, competition law and corporate finance will play a key role in guiding the Center’s initiatives.”
Clarification of June Ruto’s nomination
Ezenagu’s defence also comes at a time when President Ruto’s daughter June has been in the spotlight following reports that she had secured a new government position.
According to reports, June had been appointed director of foreign services and a participant in the National Defense College.
However, Defense Secretary Aden Duale, in an interview on July 3, clarified that June was among the sixty-seven students starting their courses at the National Defense College for the 2024/25 academic year.
source : Kenya Times
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