A half marathon event organized by the First Lady is scheduled to take place, despite concerns over its impact and benefits. The event has been criticized for being a public relations gimmick, with corporates seeking political patronage and favors contributing significantly to the cause.
According to multiple accounts, many of the ambulances donated to county governments are not in use, with equipment inside them being redundant or vandalized. Last year's event was also marred by a scandal, with the course not being marked by Athletics Kenya-approved officers, causing confusion among participants.
Contract Termination and Political Undertones ¶
The company previously overseeing the event, IMG Kenya, had its contract terminated. The firm's CEO, Charles Gacheru, has been referred to as a "Waiguru Orphan" due to his company's past contracts with former Devolution CS Anne Waiguru. Gacheru's firm, along with Transcend Media, allegedly received millions in dubious tenders from Waiguru.
Gacheru was also appointed to the board of Kenyatta International Conference Centre through Waiguru's influence. He was one of the individuals who attended the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) under her patronage.
Public Reaction and Calls for Change ¶
Kenyans on Twitter have been calling on the First Lady to shift her approach, instead urging her to convince President Uhuru Kenyatta to prioritize healthcare budget allocations and make healthcare free and universal, as promised in the Jubilee manifesto.
The recovered account cited reporting by Nation.
