The publication of the late Nderitu Gachagua’s will has triggered fresh scrutiny over the distribution of his vast estate, with executors moving to clarify details amid rising tensions among beneficiaries.
The document, made public on April 8, lays out how the former Nyeri governor’s wealth was shared among his widows, children, and other dependents, even as disagreements threaten to escalate into a prolonged legal battle.
How Nderitu Gachagua’s Wealth Was Shared
Executors of the estate, including Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, said the release of the will was intended to address concerns raised by some family members over transparency.
According to the distribution plan, key properties were allocated across the immediate family:
- A residence in Nairobi’s Lang’ata/Karen area was assigned to the first wife, Margaret Nyokabi, to hold in trust for the wider family.
- The second wife, Margaret Waithiegeni, received additional properties located in both Karen and Nyeri.
- The ancestral home in Nyeri was left to the late governor’s sons, Kenneth Gachagua and Jason Kariuki, to share equally.
The will further outlines a structured formula for the estate:
- 62% allocated to the immediate family
- 22% to other beneficiaries
- 11% set aside for liabilities and administrative costs
- 5% awarded to executors
Why Estate Assets Worth Billions Were Sold
Executors disclosed that several high-value properties had to be sold to settle outstanding debts tied to the estate.
Among the major disposals:
- Olive Gardens Hotel – sold for KSh 412 million
- Queensgate Estate – sold for KSh 590 million
- Vipingo property – sold for KSh 250 million
The combined proceeds from these sales total approximately KSh 1.25 billion.
Additional assets, including shares in Mweiga Homes, were distributed among beneficiaries, with some allocations going directly to family members such as Rigathi Gachagua.
Executors maintained that the sales were conducted above reserve prices and were necessary to clear liabilities and stabilise the estate.
What Is Fueling the Family Dispute?
Despite the explanations, the publication of the will has not quelled tensions within the family.
At least five of the 23 listed beneficiaries have raised concerns, alleging irregularities in how the estate has been handled. The dispute has drawn national attention, with some family members reportedly seeking intervention from William Ruto.
President Ruto has since weighed in, stressing the need to protect the rights of widows and children, and warning against any unlawful interference with inherited property.
As the matter unfolds, legal challenges could follow, potentially delaying the final settlement of the estate and prolonging the family standoff.
