The five-day tour, aimed at consolidating support in the vote-rich region, has raised questions about the authenticity of the turnout and the ethics of such practices.
Reports indicate that MPs from the region were allegedly given Sh3 million each to organise crowds for the President’s rallies. The funds were reportedly used to pay boda boda riders, traders, and other participants amounts ranging from Sh300 to Sh10,000.
Critics argue that these payments were aimed at manufacturing popularity and suppressing dissent, rather than fostering genuine public engagement.
Former Kenyatta International Convention Centre Chairperson Irungu Nyakera claimed that attendees were ferried from far-off areas, including Thika, to create the impression of overwhelming support.
Nyakera, who distanced himself from the tour, described the mobilisation efforts as a “choir-like” strategy to ensure unquestioning loyalty to the President.
State House officials have dismissed the allegations, emphasizing that the tour was focused on development projects and grassroots engagement. They described the claims as politically motivated attempts to discredit the President’s efforts to connect with the region’s residents.
The revelations have drawn mixed reactions from the public and political analysts. Supporters of the President have defended the tour, highlighting its focus on launching development projects such as the Mau Mau Roads and the Githunguri County Integrated Industrial Park.
Nyakera further criticized the government’s performance, accusing it of failing to deliver on campaign promises and suppressing dissent within its ranks. He called for greater political autonomy in Mount Kenya, advocating for leadership rooted in the region’s interests.
As the debate continues, the focus remains on the administration’s ability to address the concerns of Mount Kenya residents and deliver on its promises.
Source: [Nation] https://www.standardmedia.co.ke/politics/article/2001515677/costly-crowd-cheers-how-mps-mobilised-crowds-for-ruto-tour
