Kapseret Member of Parliament Oscar Sudi has declared a temporary withdrawal from public fundraising events, commonly referred to as harambees.
In an announcement made on Sunday evening, Sudi stated his intention to take a break from such engagements for a period of one to two years, citing a need for personal reflection and spiritual guidance.
“Effective immediately, I am stepping away from all harambee activities.
The current environment necessitates a reassessment, and I believe a sabbatical from public appearances is essential until I receive divine guidance,” Sudi expressed during his statement.
His decision follows closely after President William Ruto addressed concerns over the ‘harambee culture’ during a media engagement earlier that same evening.
Ruto acknowledged the need to curtail the misuse of these fundraising initiatives among politicians, emphasizing that they should not be platforms for political agendas or financial impropriety.
“We must rethink the purpose of harambees.
While originally intended to support noble causes like education, their misuse has become evident.
It’s time to put an end to this practice,” remarked Ruto from State House.
Public discontent has grown over the substantial sums of money channeled into these events by politicians, often under scrutiny for their origins and possible links to corruption.
Sudi himself recently faced allegations of donating 20 million Kenyan shillings at a church fundraiser, which he refuted in a video statement released on Sunday, clarifying that the amount was the total sum contributed by all attendees, not his personal donation.
Sudi’s decision to step back from harambees underscores a broader debate within Kenyan politics regarding transparency and accountability in fundraising activities.
His call for introspection aligns with increasing calls across the political spectrum to reform or even abolish the harambee practice altogether.
As he prepares to retreat from public engagements, Sudi’s move signals a potential shift in how Kenyan politicians engage with communities and manage their public image amidst growing scrutiny and demands for ethical leadership in governance.
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