In a country where political and social challenges often seem insurmountable, 28-year-old George Morara Kebaso has emerged as a beacon of hope. Known for his uncanny imitations of President William Ruto, which have taken social media by storm, Kebaso is more than just an entertainer. He is a lawyer and businessman with a passion for holding the government accountable, making him a rising star in Kenya’s civic activism landscape.
From TikTok to National Spotlight
Kebaso’s rise to fame began on TikTok, where his spot-on impersonations of President Ruto quickly garnered a significant following. In just a few days, he amassed over 50,000 followers, capturing the attention of Kenyans across the country. His videos, which mix humor with civic education, have resonated deeply, making him a well-known figure online. But Kebaso’s influence extends beyond social media; his work exposes critical issues of government accountability, drawing attention to unfulfilled promises and questionable spending.
Transitioning from Business to Civic Activism
Before stepping into the public eye as an activist, Kebaso was primarily known for his successful furniture business, Morara Home Furniture, which employs over 85 people. However, his entrepreneurial success was just the beginning. Driven by a desire to make a difference, Kebaso began scrutinizing government projects, determined to ensure that they were not only announced but also completed and beneficial to the public.
His transition from businessman to activist has been nothing short of inspiring. Kebaso’s mission is clear: to audit government-launched projects and hold the powers that be accountable for their promises. He travels across Kenya, armed with official documents and audit reports, to verify the status of various initiatives.
Uncovering “Ghost Projects”
Kebaso’s investigations have revealed some shocking findings. For instance, in Kabonyo, he discovered that a KES 2.5 billion fisheries and aquaculture research center, launched by President Ruto in October 2023, was nothing more than an abandoned site where children played. Similarly, the Kipkaren water treatment project in Eldoret, which began seven years ago with a budget of KES 1.85 billion, remains incomplete despite significant payments to the contractor.
These revelations have not only highlighted the inefficiencies and potential corruption within the government but also sparked public discourse on the need for transparency and accountability.
Leveraging Social Media for Change
Kebaso’s efforts have gained substantial traction on social media platforms, particularly on X (formerly Twitter). He shares his findings and engages with fellow citizens, using his platform to pressure the government into taking corrective action. His approach, which combines on-site visits with thorough document analysis, lends credibility to his investigations and amplifies their impact.
By shining a light on these issues, Kebaso educates the public and empowers them to demand better from their leaders. His work serves as a catalyst for change, encouraging Kenyans to hold their government accountable for its actions.
A Voice for the People
Beyond his investigative work, Kebaso’s near-perfect imitations of President Ruto have made him a beloved figure on social media. These videos, while humorous, serve a dual purpose: they educate the public on civic matters in a relatable and engaging way. Kebaso’s unique blend of humor and activism has struck a chord with many Kenyans, making him a key player in the fight for accountability.
The Road Ahead
Despite the challenges and potential risks associated with his activism, Kebaso remains undeterred. He believes in the power of individual initiative and the importance of civic engagement. His story is a testament to the impact one person can have in challenging systemic issues and promoting transparency.
As George Morara Kebaso continues his journey, he inspires a new generation of Kenyans to demand better governance and accountability from their leaders. His work is a powerful reminder that ordinary citizens can play a significant role in shaping the future of their country.