This archive report was first published on 2 August 2019.
On Wednesday, Manyatta Member of Parliament John Muchiri delivered a 52-seater bus to St Benedict Day Secondary School – Kithimu in his constituency, a seemingly benevolent gesture that has earned him sharp criticism rather than praise.
However, the joyous moment captured in pictures shared by the legislator was short-lived, as many took offence with the MP's decision to brand the bus with his picture and name, giving the impression that the bus was a donation from him and not funded by the National Government, Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF).
The rear window of the bus was emblazoned with a huge portrait of the MP, with the 'Sponsored by Hon. John Muchiri HSC' inscribed around it.
But Kenyans on social media have taken offence with the MP's uncalled self-appraisal, forcing him to apologise and explain himself.
Mr Muchiri claimed that the branding was just for the handing over ceremony and the stickers were later removed.
He apologised, saying, 'I want to take this opportunity to thank everyone who appreciated my good work after. I delivered a school bus and an Academic Complex at St Benedict’s Day Secondary School – Kithimu yesterday.'
However, he added, 'The branding was for the handing over ceremony purpose only. Immediately after the bus was dedicated by the priest and I handed it over, the graphics were removed.'
