In 2021, Harun Aydin was deported from Kenya under controversial circumstances. The Turkish businessman, who was linked to then-Deputy President William Ruto, was arrested upon arrival from Uganda. The government, under Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i, claimed Aydin was involved in money laundering and possibly terrorism, leading to his immediate deportation.
It was reported that the move was made at the request of Turkish authorities, suggesting that Aydin was a person of interest beyond Kenya’s borders. Two years later, the same government that labeled Aydin a threat has awarded his company a lucrative contract under the affordable housing program.
Business Daily reveals that Aydin owns 50% of MHOA Africa Limited, a company registered in March 2023, just months after President William Ruto took office.
MHOA Africa, in partnership with Demir Group, has been selected as one of the key contractors for the affordable housing project. This joint venture is expected to build over 100,000 houses, a deal worth billions of shillings.
The decision to award such a massive contract to a businessman who was previously deported raises serious questions. The same administration that once accused Aydin of money laundering now sees him as a trusted business partner.
There is growing concerns over whether due diligence was conducted before awarding the contract. The Kenyan government has been vocal about fighting corruption and ensuring transparency in public procurement, yet this deal directly contradicts those claims.
Critics argue that this case exposes the hypocrisy and double standards of the current leadership. If Aydin was truly a security threat in 2021, how did he suddenly become fit to handle a major government contract in 2023?
Many Kenyans are questioning whether the allegations against Aydin were politically motivated or if the government is now ignoring its own security concerns for the sake of business interests.
The lack of transparency in the selection process further raises suspicion about potential backdoor dealings. This development also casts doubt on the credibility of the government’s affordable housing program.
While the initiative aims to provide homes for low-income earners, its execution is now tainted by controversy.
If individuals with questionable backgrounds can secure such contracts, then the entire process is open to manipulation. Instead of prioritizing credible firms, the government appears to be rewarding individuals with political connections, regardless of their past records.
The awarding of this contract to Aydin’s company is not just a scandal, it is a direct reflection of the government’s failure to uphold integrity.
Business Daily’s report highlights how state officials have chosen to ignore past warnings about Aydin, instead giving him access to a multi-billion shilling deal.
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