NAIROBI, Kenya Sep 22 – Former President Uhuru Kenyatta has challenged claims that he is the political “sponsor” behind opposition activities, saying Kenyans are free to choose their leaders and insisting that he has no interest in using money or threats to influence voters.

📻 Breaking It Down

Speaking during the Jubilee Party leadership handover on Tuesday, Uhuru appeared to take a fresh swipe at President William Ruto over the repeated allegations, saying political leaders should convince Kenyans through their plans instead of attacking their rivals.

“Even if you call me a ‘sponsor’ (sponyo), I don’t have…” Uhuru said, drawing laughter from the crowd.

He then delivered his message on how politicians should seek votes.

📌 What You Need to Know

“I know if you speak to a Kenyan with respect, and speak to them about what you will do for them, Kenyans know a leader and you will get that vote,” he said.

Ruto has repeatedly accused Uhuru of backing or sponsoring opposition forces seeking to challenge his administration ahead of the 2027 General Election. Uhuru has previously rejected the allegations, saying the power to choose Kenya’s leaders belongs to voters.

Uhuru said there was no need for politicians to threaten, intimidate or pay people to support them.

“There’s no need to constantly threaten someone, take photos to intimidate someone, or pay people off,” he said.

He instead urged political leaders to tell Kenyans what they would do if elected.

The former President also pushed back against continued references to his administration, saying he and his team peacefully handed over power after the 2022 election.

📰 Source: Capital FM Kenya