Embakasi Central MP Benjamin Gathiru, also known as Mejja Donk, allegedly paid people Ksh 500 to attend a public participation forum at Bomas of Kenya.
The forum was part of efforts to gather public input on critical national matters, but claims emerged that participants were financially incentivized to boost attendance.
This incident adds to ongoing concerns about political mobilization tactics, where leaders are accused of using money to gather crowds and push agendas, rather than fostering genuine civic engagement.
Gathiru has also been involved in other controversies, including allegations of financing and inciting anti-government protests in June 2024.
These protests were fueled by dissatisfaction with the rising cost of living and opposition to a controversial Finance Bill.
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has recommended charges against Gathiru and other MPs for their roles in these protests, underscoring the broader issue of political manipulation in Kenya.
These incidents highlight the growing frustrations among the public about how political leaders handle both national issues and their responsibilities to constituents, often leading to unrest and accusations of corruption.
