Ichung’wah takes aim at ‘sponyo’ politics after Uhuru’s joke

Nairobi, Kenya – National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah has criticized the rise of "sponyo" politics, urging politicians to focus on creating ideas that benefit ordinary Kenyans instead of merely providing money for political battles. Speaking at the launch of the Kieni West Onion Farmers Cooperative on Saturday, Ichung’wah expressed his disapproval of being labeled as a sponsor of politicians without clear policies and direction.

Ichung’wah's remarks followed former President Uhuru Kenyatta's lighthearted use of the "sponyo" label during a funeral in Murang'a County, where he accepted the term. The nickname, a blend of "sponsor" and "spongy," has been utilized by President William Ruto and his supporters to suggest that Uhuru is financing or backing opposition political activities. Ruto has repeatedly alleged that his predecessor provided financial support to political opponents in preparation for the 2027 elections.

The Majority Leader emphasized that those with resources and influence should direct their support towards empowering ordinary Kenyans, particularly farmers. He challenged politicians to concentrate on issues directly impacting voters rather than seeking political sponsorship. "We should continue being sponsors of farmers. They get seeds, they get fertiliser, they get markets," Ichung’wah stated.

He also criticized the previous administration for failing to deliver on promised programmes, including Universal Health Coverage and the Big Four Agenda. Ichung’wah highlighted progress under President Ruto's administration, mentioning the expansion of the Social Health Authority, which has enrolled 32 million Kenyans compared to 8 million under the National Hospital Insurance Fund. He also mentioned the Affordable Housing Programme, noting that it is now being implemented across more than 280 constituencies.

Ichung’wah urged political rivals to allow the current government time to implement its initiatives. He accused unnamed politicians of using money and influence to pursue political agendas rather than presenting clear policies to address the concerns of the Kenyan people. Instead of supporting politicians financially, he suggested that voters should receive policies that directly impact their lives, such as improved access to seeds, fertiliser, and reliable markets for farmers.