Nouveau riche: Broad-based team splash cash on harambees in Luo Nyanza

Politicians from the Luo Nyanza region, associated with President William Ruto's broad-based government, have been making substantial donations during fundraising events and empowerment programs in preparation for the 2027 re-election. These contributions, often in the millions of shillings, mark a significant shift from the past when such amounts were rarely seen.

The "TuTam" brigade, composed of well-connected politicians, has become a familiar sight across the region, with helicopters frequently transporting them to various events.

A notable example of this phenomenon is Junet Mohamed, a Suba East MP and Minority Leader, who contributed Sh10 million at a harambee event at Kasembe Primary School grounds in Suna East Constituency, Migori County. The event, attended by several political leaders, raised over Sh35 million. Mohamed's contribution sparked an online backlash, leading Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi to defend him, stating that Mohamed's income far exceeds his government salary.

Another prominent contributor was Dr Oburu Oginga, ODM leader, who donated Sh1 million at a fundraising drive organized by the Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) in Siaya County. During the event, goons stole a bag containing Sh200,000 from Dr Oginga, prompting him to condemn the growing cases of goonism. The same event saw President Ruto contribute Sh10 million, with numerous other politicians making significant donations as well.

However, the scale and distribution of these funds have raised concerns among residents. Some argue that the millions being raised and distributed through empowerment programs would be better utilized for long-term development projects like road construction and infrastructure. Chaos erupted at a July 4 fundraiser in Nyando, where goons stole a bag of Sh200,000 from Dr Oginga.

The event, attended by numerous ODM politicians and cabinet secretaries, resulted in the death of one person and injuries to several others due to a stampede.