An opposition senator, Nyutu, has accused President William Ruto of staging rallies to create the impression of widespread support, particularly in the Mt Kenya region.
Speaking publicly, Nyutu alleged that the President organizes branded events where thousands of attendees are mobilized and dressed in party colours to project influence, even in areas where support may be uncertain.
He claimed that some rally attendees are paid to participate in order to shape public perception.
“The President has been trying to create a perception that he has support in, for example, Mt Kenya. That is why he will call about 8,000 people and brand them yellow to show, and also pay crowds to attend his rallies to show that he has support even in areas where people think he does not have support,” Nyutu said.
According to him, such gatherings reflect financial and logistical influence rather than genuine public backing. He contrasted this with opposition meetings, which he described as attracting “organic crowds” who attend voluntarily because they identify with the message being shared.
Nyutu further alleged that intimidation tactics, including the use of teargas at opposition events, are meant to discourage attendance and suppress alternative political voices.
He argued that such strategies could ultimately backfire, as citizens are increasingly aware of political manipulation.
The remarks add to the intensifying political rhetoric ahead of the 2027 general elections, with both government and opposition figures competing to demonstrate grassroots influence and legitimacy.
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Politics