Former President Uhuru Kenyatta has publicly dismissed a persistent wave of political attacks from his detractors, declaring that he remains completely unfazed by derogatory labels such as ‘sponsor’, ‘rebel leader’, and ‘mlevi’ (drunkard).
Addressing his critics recently, the retired Head of State stated that political figures dedicating their time to insulting him are engaging in a futile exercise. He maintained that he has officially retired from competitive politics, is fully satisfied with his ten-year legacy, and is no longer seeking any political office, influence, or rewards.
“Na mimi nasema hata wakinitukana, wakiita sponsor, rebel leader, mlevi, sijui nini, sijui hata kesho wataniita nini, ni sawa. Mimi naangalia tu, mimi nacheka (I say even if they insult me, call me a sponsor, rebel leader, drunkard, or whatever they will call me tomorrow, it is fine. I just watch and laugh),” Kenyatta remarked.
He emphasized his political detachment, adding, “Sasa you’re wasting your time na mtu ambaye hakuna kitu anatafuta. Mimi sina chochote ninachotafuta, sina kitu ya mtu (Now you are wasting your time with someone who is not looking for anything. I have nothing to seek, I hold nothing against anyone).”
The Hypocrisy of Church-Going Politicians
Beyond brushing off the name-calling, Kenyatta launched a sharp critique against the moral conduct of his political rivals. He pointed out a glaring double standard within the current political landscape, accusing certain leaders of weaponizing public platforms to hurl insults during the week, only to use Sunday church services to preach unity and condemn the exact same behavior.
“Na cha kushangaza ni kwamba wanapotukana, baadaye wanaenda kanisani kusema ni vibaya kuwatukana wengine. Kutoka kanisa ako mbele kutukana wengine (What is surprising is that when they insult, they later go to church and say it is wrong to insult others. Right after church, they are at the forefront of insulting others),” he noted.
Context of the ‘Sponsor’ Label
The specific use of the term ‘sponsor’—frequently localized as ‘sponyo’ in political rallies—is not coincidental. It stems from persistent allegations leveled by politicians allied to the ruling Kenya Kwanza administration. Over the past two years, government-allied figures have repeatedly accused Kenyatta of covertly financing opposition activities, funding anti-government protests, and orchestrating political rebellions aimed at destabilizing President William Ruto’s government.
Kenyatta, however, has consistently rejected these accusations. He maintains that his primary concern remains the welfare, peace, and long-term progress of the country.
As political realignments intensify ahead of the 2027 General Election, Kenyatta’s latest remarks signal a clear intent to observe the unfolding political theater from a distance, refusing to be drawn into a direct mudslinging contest with the current administration.
Does the continuous political focus on former President Uhuru Kenyatta distract from the current administration’s delivery of its manifesto?
Culture is constantly shifting, and the art we create defines who we are. I love documenting the creative energy, music, and digital trends that shape our modern identity.
