MPs divided over rising number of Harambees

Lawmakers have expressed divergent opinions on the growing wave of public fundraising events (harambees) across the country, sparking debate over how best to support grassroots development.

During a televised discussion aired on Monday, May 26, 2025, the MPs offered contrasting perspectives on the surge in high-profile donations, with some defending the initiatives as vital for community upliftment, while others questioned their transparency and long-term impact.

Lawmakers remain divided over the surge in public fundraising events, with critics warning of political motives and potential corruption, while allies of the Kenya Kwanza administration defend the initiatives as grassroots empowerment.

Speaking on a live TV show on May 26, 2025, Bomet Senator Hillary Sigei dismissed scrutiny over Deputy President Kithure Kindiki’s financial contributions, insisting the funds are meant to uplift small-scale traders.

"You cannot question the Deputy President’s donations; they’re meant to support low-income earners," Sigei said.

However, Githunguri MP Gathoni Wamuchomba challenged the intent behind the cash donations, branding them political theatrics.

"If this was genuine empowerment, it would have gone through Parliament with clear structures," she argued.

Kathiani MP Robert Mbui echoed the skepticism, warning that the revival of harambees could fuel corruption.

"We must ask where all this money is coming from," he said.

Kindiki has been at the forefront of high-profile harambees, touting the Ksh28 billion Nyota Program as a government-backed initiative to provide capital to small enterprises in every ward.

He maintains that such programmes are vital in creating jobs and boosting economic resilience at the grassroots.