WA Labor MP Jags Krishnan vows to “vigorously defend” US loan lawsuit
Western Australian MP Jags Krishnan faces a New Jersey court case over a $655,000 loan and says he will fight the claims in court.
Legal claim filed in New Jersey
The Nine network reported that a New Jersey District Court lawsuit names Western Australian Labor MP Jags Krishnan as a defendant, alongside his wife Yaamini Jagadish and three associated companies. Kenyan Consulting LLC alleges breach of contract and unjust enrichment after the alleged failure to repay a loan of $US655,000 (approximately $930,500) plus interest.
Alleged loan timeline
According to the court filing, Krishnan approached a Kenyan Consulting representative through a mutual friend in May 2024, requesting a short‑term loan of $US250,000. The funds were transferred to Codd Technologies, a company now solely directed by his wife.
The writ states Krishnan “expressly promised” repayment once his U.S. fundraising efforts succeeded. While in the United States, the representative allegedly provided a limousine for Krishnan to pitch a separate venture, Spectrum Health, to potential investors.
Subsequently, during a meeting at the representative’s home, Krishnan is said to have claimed “dire need of immediate funding,” resulting in an additional $US405,000 loan. Kenyan Consulting maintains the total was to be repaid within a year, whereas Krishnan’s counsel asserts the agreement allowed nine years for repayment.
Recall and current dispute
Kenyan Consulting alleges it recalled the entire loan in January 2026, citing lost confidence in Krishnan’s willingness and ability to resolve the matter, and demanded payment within 30 days. The writ records Krishnan’s reply that the loan would be repaid “at the earliest possible time,” yet the company claims no funds have been received.
The American firm says it only learned in October 2026 that Krishnan contended the repayment period was nine years.
Defence and defamation counter‑claim
Krishnan has retained Perth legal heavyweight Martin Bennett to represent both him and his wife. Bennett confirmed they will “fully defend the case.” Krishnan also announced intentions to sue a Kenyan Consulting representative and another individual for defamation.
In a prepared statement to reporters on Thursday, Krishnan said, “I’ll vigorously defend my position in court.” He added that, given the matter is before the courts, he would not discuss the claims in detail but remains confident he acted appropriately.
Political reaction
When asked whether a sitting MP should be involved in business dealings, Krishnan replied, “I was not actively engaged in any business dealings; I was assisting my wife.” A staff member subsequently escorted him back to his office as a journalist persisted with questions.
Western Australian Premier Roger Cook said he became aware of the “specifics” of the dispute only in the past week and declined further comment, noting the matter is a legal issue for Krishnan.
