"Mafia Awards" Ndegwa Njiru Slams Nomination of MPs With Questionable Behaviour for National Honours

Lawyer Ndegwa Njiru has launched a scathing attack on the government following the nomination of several Members of Parliament for national honours, describing the process as a mockery of integrity and national values.

Taking to X, Njiru questioned how individuals with questionable records were considered for recognition by President William Ruto. 

“Didmus Barasa, William Kamket, Fred Kapondi, John Waluke etc. Whoever vetted Ruto's nominees for the highest national civilian honours deserves an award too, for surviving a stench of corruption and impunity that thick,” he wrote.

The lawyer argued that Kenya’s honour system has lost meaning, saying it now celebrates impunity rather than service. 

“When Kenya's hall of honour is turned into a gallery of corruption suspects, warmongers, and political loudmouths, you know the regime is broken beyond repair,” he said, adding that the upcoming Mashujaa Day would be nothing short of “Mafia Awards.”

Among those named are Sirisia MP John Waluke, who was convicted of fraud before being released on appeal, and Kimilili MP Didmus Barasa, who has faced murder and assault allegations. 

Others, including Fred Kapondi and William Kamket, have previously been linked to incitement and ethnic tensions.

The nominations, handled by the Parliamentary Honours Advisory Committee, include prestigious awards such as the Chief of the Order of the Burning Spear (CBS), Moran of the Order of the Burning Spear (MBS), and Head of State Commendation (HSC).

His statement captures growing frustration among Kenyans who feel that genuine heroes are being overlooked in favour of political loyalists and controversial figures.