Moses Kuria, the nominee for Trade and Industry Cabinet Secretary on Tuesday defended himself against accusations of being too abrasive, saying he is misunderstood by many.

Appearing before the National Assembly Committee on Appointments, Kuria indicated that he related well with members of the public adding that he is a peace-loving Kenyan.

“I am misunderstood in some quarters but those quarters are mostly within social media and elite circles. If you go to most corners of this country, they know me as a peace-loving Kenyan.In a place like Kondele, I am the second most popular person after Raila Odinga,” said Kuria.

The 51-year-old former Gatundu South Member of Parliament (MP), who was first elected to Parliament in 2013 and reelected in 2022, also fought off accusations that he had a foul mouth and was an extremist.

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“Any perceived extremism or divisiveness on my side has been shaped by the kind of political culture we have had,” he added.


The Gatundu South legislator told the vetting panel of MPs that he is worth Sh750 million.

He revealed: “My financial net worth is 750 million. My net worth comprises real estate developments, shares held in unlisted companies in my business concerns, in manufacturing, in fintech, and in the energy sector."

Kuria further defended himself against allegations of being involved in corruption following a summon issued to him by the previous National Assembly Speaker Justin Muturi.


"I am cognizant and aware of the accusation by one of the affidavits that was received about having accepted to receiving a bribe and I think that matter was taken out of context,” Kuria added.

He noted that the Kenyan business community had experienced a difficult period and he undertook that, as Trade and Industries CS, he would create a better business environment.

He said: “Our business community has gone through difficult times. I want to assure our business community that if I am approved for this position, I will ensure that our people are free to do business. We have to stop the culture of criminalising enterprise.”