Lang’ata MP Phelix Jalang’o faced backlash on X after sharing a poster featuring his image, welcoming Kenyans to Nyayo Stadium for the Kenya vs Gabon match.
The poster, branded with the hashtag #GoHarambeeStars, displayed Jalang’o’s photo on the right alongside the text: "Welcoming all Kenyans to Lang’ata."
However, what seemed like a simple call to support the national team quickly backfired, with netizens questioning why his image was necessary.
"This is not necessary... The Kenya vs Gabon match is not a political event," wrote Ike Ojuku.
"Mpira ya Kenya na picha yako inahusiana vipi?" (@Githogothi).
"The game and the venue have nothing to do with you, sit down!" (@this_ismyforest).
In an interesting twist, one user replaced Jalang’o’s image with that of Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy, captioning it: "We are fixing the nation."
Politicians have previously been criticized for leveraging public events for visibility. A notable case involved Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris, who faced backlash after donating 900 cartons of sanitary towels branded with her face. Defending herself, she stated:
"Politics has always been a popularity contest. If placing my picture on sanitary towel packets helps reduce period shame and stigma, so be it. Many will cut it out and keep it."
Meanwhile, anticipation for the Kenya vs Gabon match remains high. The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) has confirmed that all VVIP, VIP, and regular tickets have sold out. VVIP tickets, priced at Ksh 10,000, offered exclusive perks, including secured parking inside Nyayo Stadium.
Kickoff is set for 4:00 PM EAT
