The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
Former President Uhuru Kenyatta made light of the “sponyo” nickname on Friday, jokingly referring to himself by the moniker while speaking at a funeral in Murang’a County.
The retired president was addressing mourners at the funeral of Christine Waruguru Kariuki in Kiharu, Murang’a County, where he brought a moment of levity to the otherwise solemn gathering.
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Uhuru explained his decision to read from a prepared condolence message rather than speak off the cuff, saying media misinterpretation of his remarks had made his public life increasingly difficult. He noted that he usually prefers speaking freely, but given how his words had been twisted lately, he opted to read his prepared statement instead.
He then proceeded to deliver his condolence message to the family of the late Kariuki. Once finished, Uhuru returned to a lighter tone, directly referencing the nickname used by some of his political rivals. He signed off by thanking the mourners, humorously identifying himself as “sponyo” and expressing hope to reconnect with them again — a remark that drew laughter from the crowd.
“Sponyo,” derived from the word “sponsor,” is a political nickname that has circulated in Kenyan political circles in reference to individuals perceived to be financially backing political activities.
Uhuru wrapped up his address by thanking the mourners and reaffirming his solidarity with those in attendance. He was joined at the funeral by former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i and People’s Party of Kenya leader Ndindi Nyoro, with all three leaders paying their respects alongside the Kariuki family, relatives, friends, and other mourners.
Nyoro, for his part, used the occasion to reaffirm his commitment to improving the country’s situation, which he described as dire. Among the proposals he outlined were free primary and secondary education starting January 2028, reducing the national debt, and improving access to healthcare.
Uhuru’s remarks come amid ongoing criticism from a section of political leaders who have accused him of funding political factions ahead of the 2027 General Election. Still, his joint appearance with Matiang’i and Nyoro offers another visible signal of the shifting political alliances taking shape in Central Kenya as parties and leaders position themselves ahead of the upcoming polls.
