Political activist Morara Kebaso now wants apologies from those who have doubted his fundraising initiatives for civic education efforts across the country.
In a statement shared via his X account on Sunday, November 3, 2024, Kebaso, known for his commitment to advocacy and democratic awareness called on people who have branded him a conman to apologise.
He indicated that the fundraising efforts, though controversial, were necessary to maintain the momentum of his work.
“I am currently accepting apologies from anyone who has ever called me a conman. I would like us to forgive each other and move forward as one community of people who believe in a new Kenya. I hope you now understand why we needed to fundraise resources to sustain the fire,” Morara stated.
I am currently accepting apologies from anyone who has ever called me a conman. I would like us to forgive each other and move forward as one community of people who believe in a new Kenya. I hope you now understand why we needed to fundraise resources to sustain the fire.
— Morara Kebaso (@MoraraKebasoSnr) November 3, 2024
Kebaso emphasized the importance of reconciliation and understanding, urging his critics to acknowledge the rationale behind the fundraisers and move past the negative labels.
Public scrutiny
Morara has engaged in multiple fundraising initiatives that have drawn both support and scrutiny from Kenyans.
Following a violent attack at the Bomas of Kenya during a public participation session on the impeachment of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Morara appealed to the public for funds to enhance his security.
“I am requesting Kenyans of goodwill to support me in boosting my security infrastructure and manpower… The security expenditure will be very confidential therefore I won’t publicly account for it. Only send if you trust me,” he requested via his X account.
In another instance, Kebaso sought contributions to acquire a Ksh1.2 million public address system for his civic education tours.
Kebaso mentioned using an old Land Rover Defender as the potential vehicle to transport the system, though it required repairs.
He expressed gratitude to supporters after reaching the fundraising target.
“The mobile money account is full and the transaction limit has been exhausted. Kindly, I request you to stop sending until tomorrow,” he shared.
While some appreciate his commitment and necessity for funds, others have raised concerns over transparency. Kebaso defended these efforts, assuring that contributors would see tangible outcomes from their support.
Morara on refunding contributors
In September 2024, Kebaso announced his plan to return funds donated for his civic education program, citing frustration over being labelled conman.
“I cannot continue to dirtify my reputation and earn the tag of a conman or beggar. It’s not worth it. For this reason, I would like to refund any Kenyan who has supported me and felt conned.”
To ensure the refund process was clear and efficient, he asked donors seeking reimbursement to provide the original M-Pesa message they received when contributing.
“Please comment below with the M-Pesa message. I will check if it’s real, refund you in full with a top-up for withdrawal then I will copy-paste my refund message below your comment,” Morara stated.
Morara acknowledged the backing he had received but questioned the overall commitment to change.
“I am grateful for all the support Kenyans have given me. But a time comes when a man must decide whether the nation is worth fighting for. My observation is that most Kenyans have already decided the country they want to live in.”
