Popular activist Morara Kebaso has recently shed light on his past as a student leader and the events that led to his expulsion from Kenyatta University in 2017.
Speaking at the Kiss 100 Morning Show, his story revealed a pattern of activism that began in his teenage years and has evolved into a national movement for accountability.
Early Activism and Expulsion from Maseno School
Kebaso’s journey as an activist started early in his life. He disclosed:
“At 16-years-old I also got expelled from Maseno School because of student activism.”
The Kenyatta University Controversy
In 2017, as a student leader at Kenyatta University, Kebaso found himself at the center of a contentious issue involving student relocation.
The university had been selected as the championship village for the IAAF U18 championships, which were being held at the Moi Sports Centre Kasarani. This selection necessitated the renovation of certain facilities, including the Nyayo Zone, which housed approximately 4,000 students.
Kebaso explained the situation:
“The administration was telling students to move out of that place without compensating them or giving them a place to go.”
Determined to ensure fair treatment for the students, Kebaso took action:
“I realised that there was money for the relocation of the students, so I told the administration to give the students the money they said they’d give Sh7,000; I said no, they said we can add it to Sh12,000. I said no, they said we’re adding it to Sh15,000, I said no, so they said you can go on strike.”
His persistence paid off:
“We went on strike, they said no, let us talk. Let’s make it Sh21,000 and everybody got Sh21,000 in their accounts.”
The Path to Expulsion
Despite this victory, Kebaso’s relationship with the university administration remained strained. He recounted the events leading to his expulsion:
“When I came back for the campaigns, I had real momentum because I had won against them in court. So, a day before the elections, they expelled me at night.”
From Campus Activist to National Watchdog
Kebaso’s experiences as a student activist have shaped his current role as a self-styled “auditor-in-chief.” He now travels across Kenya, inspecting government projects and holding authorities accountable.
However, he faced challenges lately, claiming that most Kenyans were calling him a con. He had offered to refund all donations.
Grassroots Support and Motivation
His efforts have garnered widespread support from the public. Kebaso shared:
“People have sent me Sh10, Sh50, and some Sh5,000 from abroad. That’s how I’m able to fuel my vehicle and pay my research assistant.”
He attributes his bravery to his love for the nation and his disappointment in its governance.
Rising to National Prominence
Kebaso’s rise to national prominence came through an unexpected route:
“Speaking of his motivation to move across the country ‘inspecting’ projects, Morara said it was the imitation of the president that earned him support and saw him gain popularity.”
This unique approach has allowed him to capture public attention and channel it towards issues of national importance.
