Raphael Tuju Files Criminal Complaint Against Senior Counsel Fred Ojiambo
Former Cabinet Secretary Raphael Tuju has escalated his Sh1.5 billion property dispute by filing a criminal complaint at the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI).
Tuju accuses Senior Counsel Fred Ojiambo, a partner at Kaplan and Stratton, of orchestrating forged affidavits and fabricated court evidence in a long-running legal battle involving the East African Development Bank (EADB).
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Allegations of Forged Affidavits
Speaking after recording his statement at DCI headquarters, Tuju said he submitted documentary evidence which he believes proves criminal conduct.
He alleges that affidavits filed in court were not properly commissioned before a Commissioner for Oaths. According to Tuju, the documents were falsely presented as legally sworn statements in superior courts.
Tuju claims the alleged actions misled the High Court and Supreme Court in proceedings related to enforcement of securities attached to his Karen property.
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From Civil Dispute to Criminal Complaint
The dispute between Tuju and the East African Development Bank has been ongoing for years. It involves contested loan arrangements and enforcement proceedings tied to his property.
However, Tuju now argues that the matter goes beyond civil litigation.
Accompanied by his lawyer Duncan Okach, Tuju said professional titles such as Senior Counsel should not shield anyone from criminal investigation.
He further criticized Kaplan and Stratton, claiming the firm projects a polished international image while engaging in questionable litigation tactics.
Ojiambo Responds
Senior Counsel Fred Ojiambo has denied the accusations.
In a phone interview, Ojiambo described the claims as baseless. He stated that neither he nor his firm has falsified any affidavit in any legal matter.
He said he remains confident in the integrity of his legal practice.
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Wider Legal Implications
Tuju also referenced separate legal issues involving Peter Gachuhi, another senior partner at Kaplan and Stratton, though that case is legally distinct.
The DCI will now examine:
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Court affidavits
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Commissioning records
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Correspondence related to the case
Investigators must determine whether the allegations amount to criminal offenses or reflect a protracted commercial dispute.
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A High-Stakes Legal Battle
The Tuju property war with the East African Development Bank has now entered a decisive phase.
What began as a financial dispute over debt and securities could evolve into a major criminal investigation involving prominent legal figures.
The outcome may significantly impact public confidence in Kenya’s legal profession.