Mixed reactions as Morara Kebaso seeks funds for 'anika serikali' initiative

For the past few weeks, Kebaso Morara has made headlines as a Kenyan social media activist, independently verifying projects launched by President William Ruto across the country.

Through his social media platforms, Morara has become a well-known figure, documenting his visits to various development sites to assess the progress and authenticity of said government projects.

His efforts have garnered both praise and criticism, with many commending his commitment to transparency and accountability in government operations.

But, on Monday this week, Morara sparked a wave of reactions after taking to X and Facebook to request financial support from Kenyans to sustain his mission.

In his appeal, the advocate detailed his need for funds to cover travel expenses, equipment, and notably, a "presidential speaker."

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"Dear sponsors—the People of Kenya, we can get a Presidential sound at Sh1.2 million or a middle sound at Sh838,200. Kindly review the quoted prices and verify if they are within market rates. For the sound system, I have already raised Sh325,000 on M-Pesa. I hope more Kenyans of goodwill will continue giving," he wrote.

"As for the vehicle to be fitted with this sound system, I still don't have one, but I own an old Land Rover Defender somewhere that doesn’t have a gearbox. I can fix it so we can move forward. These assets will be used solely for civic education and good governance campaigns. I will be organising caravans where you can join me as we make a combined effort to redeem our country."

This unconventional request has led to mixed reactions. Some Kenyans have questioned the necessity and legitimacy of his demands, while others have expressed support, viewing his initiative as a way to empower citizens to hold the government accountable.

One user, @Iam_belvin, argued, "Nothing can be done without funds. I know Kenyans have been swindled to the point of fear, but this is for our future. We are losing a lot as a country. Let's do something."

Another user, @Chaguas1, opined "No battle is won without preparation. If this is the way to fight and win, let those who can chip in do so. People's power and togetherness are supreme. I remember those Kenyans who went abroad before us did it through money raised by neighbors who would sell their chickens for the common good."

However, others like @KijanaYaBabaParodyKE, disagreed: "We were against Hanifa spending funds on billboards, and we're against Morara Kebaso asking for Sh1.2m to buy a P.A. system. We're not in the business of buying assets for people's future political endeavors. Morara has exposed his desire to run for office too soon. We won't be used to service his political aspirations under the guise of civic education."

Yesterday evening, Morara announced that he had reached the M-Pesa transaction limit and urged Kenyans to hold off on sending more funds until today (Wednesday). The maximum balance allowed in an M-Pesa wallet is Sh1.5 million.

As the conversation surrounding Morara's unconventional appeal unfolds, it highlights the growing demand for transparency and accountability from those in power.

Regardless of the outcome of his crowdfunding efforts, Morara has sparked an important dialogue on the role of citizen-led initiatives in governance and the critical need for every citizen to hold the government accountable.

Morara, addressing concerns about accountability, assured his supporters: "I am not afraid to ask for financial support because my conscience is clear on how it will be used. If you're sending money, just send what you can and wait for the results. You will see the fruit of your labor. Let’s build a culture of owning our leaders.”

Morara's 'Anika Serikali' initiative comes weeks after Kenyans raised concerns about President William Ruto's efforts to relaunch some projects that had been launched or commissioned by his predecessor, Uhuru Kenyatta.

One of the projects he launched for the second time was the construction of an interchange at Daraja Mbili in Kisii town which was billed to be a game changer in improving infrastructure in the region.

While launching the project, the officials led by Housing Department Director Administration Mabeya Mogaka said it would cost Sh204 million and will be constructed in consultation with the Kisii county government.

However, the said project was first launched on June 3, 2016, by senior officials from the State Department of Transport, Infrastructure, and Housing Development who it over to the contractor.

Another relaunched project is the Iriari and Kanyuambora Irrigation project which he launched on August 8 and was estimated to cost Sh280 million. The project was however first launched on March 8, 2021, by former Water and Irrigation Cabinet Secretary Sicily Kariuki and was to cost Sh220 million.

The President also relaunched stalled projects such as the Sh4.5 billion Ichamara-Thangathi-Rutune road which is perhaps Kenya’s most celebrated stalled project for it has witnessed one launch by a deputy president and a second by the same man as the president.

It is such projects that Morara, through his initiative aims to bring to light, informing Kenyans about their existence.