Former President Uhuru Kenyatta has urged Mt Kenya residents to accept campaign handouts from politicians but vote out leaders who fail to address the economic struggles facing ordinary Kenyans.
Speaking during a Jubilee Party delegates meeting in Kiambu, Uhuru said wananchi should not allow money distributed during campaigns to influence their final decision at the ballot box.
The former Head of State accused some political leaders of attempting to manipulate voters through financial inducements while ignoring the real issues affecting citizens, including the high cost of living and economic hardships.
Speaking in Kikuyu, Uhuru told residents to freely accept money offered during campaigns, insisting that such funds belong to the public.
“They will come with money. Eat the money because it is your cash,” Uhuru said.
“The money will be yours, what would be the problem if you take it? Eat the money and ask them to come back again another time,” he added.
However, Uhuru cautioned residents against allowing handouts to determine how they vote during elections.
He urged wananchi to make independent political decisions based on the performance of leaders and the state of the economy.
“But remember on voting day, you know what needs to be done. The voting day will be a time to change the country and livelihoods,” he said.
The remarks are expected to trigger fresh political debate as political camps intensify grassroots mobilisation ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Critics of the current administration have in recent months accused leaders of relying on donations and public handouts to gain political support amid growing economic frustrations among Kenyans.
Uhuru also appeared to criticise some leaders from the Mt Kenya region, accusing them of abandoning the interests of residents and focusing instead on defending other political figures.
According to the former President, some Members of Parliament have failed to speak about the daily struggles facing wananchi and instead spend their time praising political leaders for personal gain.
“Have you ever heard them speak about things that help you, things that touch you?” Uhuru posed during the meeting.
“They just sing tunes of another person because they have been given something and it is in their pockets,” he added.
The former President urged residents to carefully evaluate leaders seeking votes and reject those who do not stand with wananchi during difficult times.
He further maintained that he would continue speaking out on issues affecting Kenyans despite criticism from political opponents.
Uhuru said leaders must remain accountable to citizens and address the economic concerns affecting households across the country.
