The National Ordinary People Empowered Union (NOPEU), an affiliate of the Azimio La Umoja coalition, issued an apology following public outcry over a campaign poster obstructing a road sign. The incident involved a poster featuring EALA MP Mpuru Aburi, which was placed on a warning sign for a road bump, drawing criticism from motorists and social media users.
Party Secretary General Rodgers Kimpembe Mpuru stated the organization was addressing the issue, acknowledging the poster's placement as an error. "We will rectify this immediately. Our apologies," he said, responding to concerns raised about the potential safety risks posed by the obstruction.
Online discussions highlighted fears that the poster could lead to accidents, with some users urging the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) to take action. Similar incidents have occurred during recent election campaigns, prompting calls for stricter enforcement of regulations against improper poster placements.
In 2017, KeNHA warned politicians of a Ksh85,000 fine for placing campaign materials on road signs or pillars. The Green Thinking Action Party (GTAP) had previously advocated for environmental cleanup fees to be included in election campaign costs, emphasizing the need for proactive measures to prevent campaign-related pollution.
Aburi, who is seeking re-election through NOPEU, remains a member of the East African Legislative Assembly. The controversy underscores ongoing tensions between political campaigning and road safety regulations, with stakeholders demanding clearer enforcement mechanisms.
