The former President’s light-hearted remark has reignited debate over his alleged role in financing opposition activities ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Former President Uhuru Kenyatta on Sunday made a rare public appearance at the 23rd memorial service for former Vice President Michael Kijana Wamalwa in Kitale, Trans Nzoia County — and promptly stole the spotlight with a witty remark that has set political circles abuzz.
While addressing mourners and political leaders gathered to honour Wamalwa’s legacy, Uhuru listed various political figures but stressed that Kenyans, not politicians, will ultimately decide who becomes the next president in the 2027 General Election.
However, the crowd erupted in cheers and ululations when he mentioned Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna — a moment that prompted the former Head of State to issue a caution that drew laughter from the audience.
“Jameni chungeni, sitaki kuitwa sponsor,” Uhuru said, smiling.
(Translation: “Please be careful, I don’t want to be called a sponsor.”)
The “Sponsor” Debate That Won’t Go Away
Uhuru’s remark was a direct — albeit humorous — response to persistent claims by President William Ruto and his allies that the former President is secretly financing opposition politicians, particularly those associated with the Linda Mwananchi movement.
Ruto has repeatedly alleged that Uhuru is bankrolling figures positioning themselves against his re-election bid, painting the former President as a kingmaker working behind the scenes to unseat him in 2027.
Sifuna, who is the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Secretary-General and a key figure in the Linda Mwananchi movement, has consistently denied these allegations. He maintains that the movement relies on contributions from ordinary Kenyans and well-wishers, not on funding from Uhuru or any single political figure.
A Light Moment at a Solemn Gathering
The memorial service for Wamalwa — who served as Kenya’s eighth Vice President under the late President Mwai Kibaki and passed away in 2003 — was largely a somber affair, attended by leaders across the political divide.
Uhuru’s playful exchange provided a rare moment of levity, even as he underscored a serious point: no amount of political maneuvering or alleged sponsorship can override the will of Kenyan voters.
“Kenyans will be free to choose whoever they want as president,” Uhuru reaffirmed, reminding the gathering that ultimate power rests in the hands of the electorate.
What This Means for 2027 Politics
Uhuru’s “sponsor” joke is unlikely to quiet the debate. In fact, it is almost certain to add fresh fuel to the ongoing political fire:
- Ruto’s camp will likely interpret Uhuru’s remarks as an indirect acknowledgment of his political involvement, even if framed as a joke.
- The opposition — particularly Sifuna and the Linda Mwananchi movement — may use the moment to further distance themselves from claims of external funding, pointing to Uhuru’s own denial as validation.
- Political analysts see this as the latest chapter in the strained relationship between Uhuru and Ruto, who were once allies before a bitter fallout that saw Uhuru back Raila Odinga in the 2022 elections.
Sifuna’s Response
While Sifuna has not yet directly commented on Uhuru’s latest remarks, he has previously dismissed sponsorship claims as “baseless propaganda” designed to distract Kenyans from real issues. In past interviews, the Nairobi Senator has insisted that Linda Mwananchi is a grassroots movement driven by civic engagement, not political financing.
A Nation Watching
With less than two years to go before the 2027 elections, every public appearance, statement, and gesture by key political figures is being closely scrutinized. Uhuru’s light-hearted quip may have drawn laughs in Kitale, but it has also reminded Kenyans that the battle for the country’s political future is already well underway.
For now, the former President has made his position clear: he does not want the label of “sponsor” — whether or not the public believes him remains another matter entirely.
This is a developing story. Updates will be provided as more reactions come in from political leaders and the Linda Mwananchi movement.