Kenyan President William Ruto is placing himself at the heart of the national football team’s success, using the ongoing African Nations Championship (CHAN) as a welcome distraction from months of deadly anti-government protests. In June and July, Kenya witnessed violent demonstrations that left 65 people dead, according to a police watchdog. While the protests have quieted, the grievances over police brutality and economic hardship remain unresolved.
Yet, the excitement of football has shifted much of the public mood. Kenya is co-hosting CHAN, and the Harambee Stars are making history with impressive performances on and off the pitch. Ruto has positioned himself as their number-one fan, showing up at games, visiting the dressing room, and promising hefty rewards. Initially, he pledged one million shillings (about $7,740) for every win and half that for a draw, but he later raised the stakes to 2.5 million shillings plus a two-bedroom house if the team beat Zambia in the quarter-finals.
How Are Kenyans Reacting to Ruto’s Football Politics?
The president’s strategy is working in some ways. Crowds that once shouted “Wantam” to mock him as a one-term leader now fill stadiums with chants of “One Million,” about his promises to the players. Bernard Ndong, a prominent sports editor, noted that “Most people are happy that the national team has been rewarded for their performance.” However, he added that “Some skeptics are wondering where that money is coming from and whether it’s also a subtle way for him to endear himself to the people through football.”
Just weeks before the tournament, Ruto’s remarks encouraging police to shoot violent protesters drew public outrage. Now, with the team’s success, the protests have been overshadowed by football fever. Analysts argue this is no coincidence.
Is Football a Political Lifeline for Ruto?
The Standard newspaper called the tournament a moment of “respite” for Ruto, even as corruption allegations persist. Political analyst Chris Sambu described CHAN as “a calculated opportunity where soft-power tactics, national pride, and targeted public engagement intersect to blunt criticism and reopen channels of support.” For Ruto, football offers a stage to link himself with national unity and pride instead of political unrest.
Despite heavy fines from the Confederation of African Football after fans without tickets stormed stadiums, the president has promised public screens so everyone can watch the games. He told the players, “It is the Harambee Stars who have reunited the nation. I am proud that thanks to your talents, the nation stands tall, united, and inspired.”
Supporters like Amina Muchiri believe Ruto’s football strategy is working. “Sport and politics are powerful tools,” she said, adding that this may be his best chance to reconnect with Gen Z, who led the protests. Still, as Elias Makori, a veteran sports journalist, observed, “It’s a good comeback against the Gen Z unrest, but how long it can be sustained is another question.”
By Yockshard Enyendi