The Lawyer Giving a Whole New Meaning to “Holding Leaders Accountable”
Morara Kebaso, the outspoken lawyer and activist, has been stirring up quite the storm online—and some government bloggers are probably losing sleep over it. Known for his blunt critiques of Kenya’s development projects, Kebaso’s latest mission seems to be ruffling feathers in all the right (or wrong) places, depending on whom you ask.
The Road to Controversy: Metembe – Marani – Kegogi – Nyaore
Kebaso recently turned his attention to the Metembe-Marani-Kegogi-Nyaore Road—a 64.6-kilometer stretch slicing through Kitutu Chache North and South in Kisii. Local leaders couldn’t stop singing praises for President William Ruto for the “new” project. But Kebaso, ever the party pooper, was quick to remind everyone that this road had already been launched back in 2016 by—you guessed it—former President Uhuru Kenyatta.
Government’s “We Knew That” Response
Ndugu, STOP misleading Kenyans!
— Hussein Mohamed, MBS. (@HusseinMohamedg) August 19, 2024
The road criss-crosses Kitutu Chache North and South constituencies in Kisii County, and is 64.6 km.
The project was initially awarded on 11th May, 2016, and works commenced on 5th August, 2016, after its launch by President Uhuru Kenyatta.
But… https://t.co/9NyLV1DZ0z pic.twitter.com/grTgHgS3Ur
To save face, State House spokesperson Hussein Mohammed chimed in, explaining that while the project did start in 2016, it faced some “minor” issues—like a contractor who didn’t quite get around to doing the actual work. The project was conveniently re-tendered and re-launched in 2024 under Ruto, complete with a shiny new 42-month deadline and an extra 36 months of maintenance, just in case things go south again.
Beyond Infrastructure: The Activist Tour
Kebaso’s activism isn’t just limited to calling out recycled road projects. He’s been on a nationwide tour, inspecting the government’s so-called progress like a parent checking their teenager’s room. His growing online presence has made him a voice of public accountability—or a thorn in the side of those who’d prefer to sweep a few things under the rug.
Who Is Morara Kebaso?
Kebaso’s journey is far from typical. He was the first student to score an “A” at St. Francis Gekendo Secondary School since 1979, setting the stage for a future of proving people wrong. His career kicked off with stints as a waiter at Ufanisi Resorts, a salt merchandiser for Kaysalt (yes, really), and a Mathematics and Physics teacher at Kabiro Secondary School. Let’s just say he’s worn a few hats.
“Hustling” His Way to the Top
During university, Kebaso dipped his toes into online writing, hustled avocados, sold insurance, and even ran a wines and spirits shop—because why not diversify, right? By the age of 28, he had ticked off a few boxes on the success list: first car at 22, multiple Prado SUVs, and a house by 26. But his entrepreneurial flair didn’t stop there. He went on to found Morara Home Furniture, a thriving business employing over 75 people, with branches from Utawala to Eldoret.
Kebaso’s success story wouldn’t be complete without mentioning his partner-in-crime, Mercy Morara. The two tied the knot when Kebaso was just 21 and kicked off their life together in a cozy single room in Rongai. Their side hustle? Selling milk and chapatis to school kids. Fast forward a few years, and Mercy’s role has been instrumental in turning their humble beginnings into the powerhouse they are today.