Suba South MP questions Ruto’s endless cash splashes on Harambee Stars
Suba South MP Caroli Omondi, a close ally of ODM Party Leader Raila Odinga, has challenged President William Ruto over his latest money donations to Harambee Stars players.
Speaking to one of the local TV stations on Monday, August 18, 2025, Caroli said there was a need for accountability and clarity whenever public figures reward national teams.
Questions on funding clarity
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Omondi observed that while supporting athletes is commendable, how the donations are announced creates anxiety and confusion.
“Going forward, there will be a proper mechanism to reward the sportspeople. I think what is causing the anxiety is a lack of clarity.
“Where is the money coming from? Who determines that it is Ksh2.5 million? It begins to look like there is no order,” he said.
The legislator insisted that Kenyans deserve to know whether such rewards come from personal contributions, private fundraising, or state resources.
According to him, transparency would protect both athletes and government officials from allegations of mismanagement.
Call for structured rewards
Omondi stressed that a sustainable framework should be developed to cover all sports disciplines rather than singling out football.
We need to clean that up so that everyone knows this is where the money is coming from. And it is not just football, it should be the entire sports,” he added.
His comments reflect growing debate in the sporting sector, where stakeholders have long complained of inconsistent funding and selective recognition of athletes.
Many have argued that while football often receives high-profile support, other sports like athletics, volleyball, rugby, and basketball face chronic underfunding despite delivering international victories.
Omondi’s statement comes just days after President Ruto pledged millions to Harambee Stars following their recent victory, a move that drew mixed reactions online.
Supporters hailed the gesture as motivation for players, while critics questioned whether cash handouts are the best way to strengthen Kenyan football.
Analysts say the remarks by the Suba North MP could reframe the conversation, pushing the government to establish formal reward policies that ensure fairness and accountability.
As the debate grows, it highlights the wider issue of how Kenya balances political goodwill with the need for long-term sports development.
