Hata mniite sponyo: Uhuru uses sponyo moniker to make a bold declaration
By Paulette Mboga, September 22, 2026Retired President Uhuru Kenyatta has addressed the “Sponyo” name used to refer to him, saying he remains a Jubilee member and has the freedom to make his own political choices.
Speaking in Nairobi on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, Uhuru said people should not be insulted or pressured because of their opinions, adding that Kenyans also have the right to decide who they want to support.
“Mimi bado ni mwana Jubilee, mnaona kofia yangu. Wananiita majina huko, sponyo sijui nini. Ni maoni yangu, si kila mtu ako na uhuru ya kuamua? Hakuna haja ya kutusi mtu,” Uhuru Kenyatta said.
The fourth president said political choices should be respected and questioned how Kenyans should be treated after electing their leaders. He said there was no need for people to be threatened, attacked or paid in the search for political support.
“Mnaelewa? Ambieni wakenya mtawatendea vipi unaona? Wakenya waki wachagua,” Uhuru Kenyatta said.
Uhuru also referred to his experience in 2002, when he said he had asked for support but was still rejected. He used the experience to show that people can make their own decisions even when a politician wants them to offer their support.
How the name sponyo came about
The “Sponyo” name has featured in recent political exchanges involving Uhuru, President William Ruto and his supporters. Ruto and his allies have used the term in reference to claims that the retired president is supporting or financing opposition activities.
“Mimi naambianga watu mwaka wa 2002, niliomba nikaomba, nilikua nimeisha. Lakini bado nikaambiwa la,” Uhuru Kenyatta said.
The retired president had also appeared to embrace the nickname at a past function on Friday, September 18, 2026. He used “Sponyo” while signing off his address during the burial of Christine Waruguru Kariuki in Gikuu, Kiharu Constituency.
“Ni hayo machache kutoka kwa sponyo… We will meet again, and we will continue working together,” Uhuru Kenyatta said.
The reference drew laughter from mourners at the function.
His latest remarks also touched on the use of threats, violence and money in politics. He said he was willing to support someone regardless of the names people chose to call him.
“Hakuna haja kila saa ni kutisha mtu, kupiga watu, ni kulipa watu. Mimi sina ndururu nitalipa mtu hata mniite sponyo, mimi sina,” Uhuru Kenyatta said.