Ruto Ally Points Fingers Over Kenya’s Growing Betting Crisis
The discussion around the dangers of betting addiction in Kenya took a new turn on Sunday after National Assembly Chief Whip and South Mugirango MP, Sylvanus Osoro, placed the blame on former President Uhuru Kenyatta for the worsening situation.
Speaking at a church service in Malava, Kakamega County, Osoro suggested that the former head of state was largely responsible for the spread of betting in the country.
Although he did not directly mention Uhuru by name, it was clear he was responding to recent remarks where the former president had urged Kenyan youth to rise up and push for a leadership change.
“I hear some leaders advising the youth to join certain political movements to remove current leaders. But during your time as president, you allowed so many betting companies to be licensed,” Osoro said.
He highlighted that it was during Uhuru’s administration that over 200 betting firms were registered, a move he said had worsened the situation facing young people today.
“Under your leadership, more than 200 betting companies were licensed. Now, when the youth wake up in the morning, most of them only think about betting.
Many have ended up depressed and some have even taken their own lives because of this addiction,” Osoro added.
Osoro further revealed that Parliament will soon revisit the laws regulating the betting industry, aiming to tighten control and find ways to address the widespread problem.
Defending President Ruto’s Foreign Trips
The youthful MP also voiced his frustrations with Kenyans who have recently criticised President William Ruto over his trip to China.
He defended the president’s travels, explaining that the journey was meant to attract investment opportunities for Kenya’s growth.
“Just recently, the president travelled to China to seek investments for our country, yet all I see is criticism. If you don’t have an alternative solution, then what do you want?” Osoro posed to the public.
Government Moves to Crack Down on Betting Firms
On Saturday, Internal Security Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo announced a nationwide crackdown on illegal betting companies, following public anger over the increasing betting crisis.
PS Omollo said the government had recognised the seriousness of the problem and vowed to take firm action against rogue businesses exploiting vulnerable Kenyans.
“We are losing many young people to betting addiction. As a government, we are cleaning up this sector and we urge the public to support these efforts.
Let’s help stop those who want to destroy our youth through betting,” he said.
In addition to the crackdown, the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) also issued a tough new directive to broadcasters.
In a letter dated April 23, 2025, signed by CA Director General David Mugonyi, radio and TV stations were ordered to cut down on betting, lottery, and gambling promotions within 14 days.
Failure to comply could see broadcasters lose their licenses.
Public Outcry Mounts Over Betting Addiction
Meanwhile, Kenyans on social media have been pushing for immediate government intervention to tackle the betting crisis.
Many users have pointed fingers at politicians, accusing them of playing a key role in the mushrooming of betting companies across the country.
The pressure from the public, combined with rising concerns from leaders and regulators, shows that betting addiction is now being treated as a serious national issue.
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