Recent remarks by a section of Kenyan politicians claiming a successful presidential campaign in Kenya can cost up to KSh10 billion have caused uproar among Kenyans online, with less than two years to the highly anticipated 2027 General Election.
Lang’ata MP Phelix Odiwuor recently criticized former Chief Justice David Maraga’s ‘Wanjiku’ funded campaign move, saying that Kenyan politics requires a lot of investment and that the proposed KSh1.5 billion by Maraga is only a drop in the sea. “Siasa za nchi hii ni pesa, ukabila na kitu kubwa zaidi ni ukabila. Politics is about numbers,” he stated. “KSh1.5 billion is only enough for four days in a presidential campaign.”
According to Jalang’o, a politician can spend roughly KSh10 billion on merchandise alone in a presidential campaign. “Katika campaign ya Rais budget inakua ni ya watu elfu kumi na hao watu elfu kumi sio eti wamekuja tu, wamewachiliwa kitu ndio wakuje.”
Nandi Senator Samson Charargei has also spoken out on Maraga’s move to launch an online fundraising for his presidential bid, terming it an impossible task in Kenya.
“Just like I advised my brother Senator Omtata that to run an effective presidential campaign, you need at least KSh 7 billion; Rtd. Chief Justice Maraga should know that in Kenya, fundraisers can never fund campaigns, not even that of an MCA!” He said.
Charargei sought to know whether Maraga is looking for presidential votes or siphoning money from innocent Kenyans, who are already grappling with harsh economic times. “Is Maraga looking for votes or money? Which is which?” He questioned.
Meanwhile, Kenyans in the online space have reacted differently to the uproar, with some welcoming Maraga’s decision for an online kitty, saying it reflects what other international leaders have previously done that worked for them.
“This is exactly what Americans said of Obama. Then slowly, he picked up momentum. By the time they realised he was going to win, it was too late. Maraga needs a few million for travel to the town halls, that’s all. He doesn’t need handouts, rallies, branding, and choppers.” Said one online user.
Even as some Kenyans laud the take, others see it as a form of elevated corruption, where leaders are funded for campaigns only for them to acquire the seats, then loot properties in their best interest. “The obsession that one should have a certain amount of money to run for the highest office tells you that we have the most corrupt system of voting.” Read a comment.
Moreover, the question of KSh10 billion for the presidential campaign has raised concerns with netizens wanting to know the point of conducting expensive campaigns, which will lead to a ‘settle for less.’
“You need to spend close to KSh 10 billion for a job that will pay KSh 1.4M per month? How do you recover your billions?” Another netizen asked.
