Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has accused Parliament of demanding bribes that led to the United Kingdom relocating its British Army Training Unit Kenya (BATUK) operations to Tanzania. He alleged that the National Assembly Committee on Defence and Foreign Affairs sought Sh3 billion to approve the renewal of the defence cooperation agreement.

However, the Committee, through its chair Nelson Koech, dismissed these accusations, clarifying that treaty ratification is an executive responsibility. Koech emphasized that the core dispute involves legal jurisdiction over British personnel and accountability mechanisms, especially following the unresolved murder case of Agnes Wanjiru and grievances from communities in Nanyuki and Laikipia.

Background on BATUK and the Defence Agreement

BATUK has operated in Nanyuki for decades, providing military training, counter-terrorism support, and local employment. The Kenya-UK Defence Cooperation Agreement expired in October 2021, and its renewal has been stalled mainly over jurisdictional issues, with Parliament insisting that serious crimes committed by British soldiers, including murder, should be tried in Kenyan courts.

The UK Ministry of Defence confirmed the cancellation of a planned military exercise in Laikipia due to the lack of necessary licences, stating the training will be moved outside Kenya. Despite this, the UK reaffirmed its commitment to the defence partnership and hopes to resume in-country training soon.

Political Fallout and Broader Context

Speaking at a church service in Meru County, Gachagua criticized government corruption for undermining the BATUK agreement and disrupting local benefits. He also launched a political attack on President William Ruto, accusing him of trying to divide the Mt Kenya region ahead of the 2027 elections. Gachagua vowed to intensify his campaign efforts to counter Ruto’s influence in the area.

He further raised concerns about security, urging the government to address violence at political events and reassure investors and the international community about Kenya’s stability.

This controversy highlights tensions between political actors and challenges in foreign defence cooperation, with legal jurisdiction and accountability remaining key sticking points in the Kenya-UK military partnership.