Kuria, who appeared before Parliament for vetting on Tuesday, October 18, said he mingles well with members of the public and he is known to be 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,” he told the vetting panel.
The former Gatundu South Member of Parliament (MP) had been accused by Ugunja MP Opiyo Wandayi as a foul-mouth person.
“Any perceived extremism or divisiveness on my side has been shaped by the kind of political culture we have had.
“Going forward, I am going to play my role in ensuring that we have a culture where political competition is not enmity,” he stated.
The former MP also defended himself against corruption allegations in Parliament, saying his summons by the then National Assembly Speaker Justin Muturi was taken out of context.
“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,” he said.
In his role as CS for Trade and Industries, the nominee said he was aware of the difficulties that the business community is undergoing in Kenya.
“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,” he said.
He further told the vetting committee that he is worth Ksh750 million.
“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,” he stated.
Kuria, 51, served as Gatundu South MP for two terms between 2013 and 2022.
