Nairobi, Kenya – August 1, 2025 — What was intended to be a grand celebration of African football is now teetering on the edge of political turbulence, as Kenya braces for the kickoff of the delayed 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) amid fears of mass protests and political showdowns.
With Kenya co-hosting the continental football tournament alongside Uganda and Tanzania from August 2 to 30, security agencies and the Local Organising Committee (LOC) are grappling with growing concerns that political factions will hijack the event to push rival narratives. The 8th edition of CHAN will see matches held at Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, and Nyayo Stadium — with Kasarani set to host the final.
Insiders within political and security circles have told Nairobi Exposed that both Kenya Kwanza and opposition camps are mobilising supporters to attend CHAN matches in droves, not just to cheer on the national team, but to turn stadium terraces into political battlegrounds.
President William Ruto’s allies are said to be organising logistics to ferry thousands of spectators to the matches under a new campaign slogan “Tutam” — shorthand for “Tutamaliza” — aimed at reinforcing the president’s push for a second term in 2027. These fans, allegedly being paid Sh1,000 each, are expected to fill the stadiums and erupt into coordinated chants supporting the president, projecting an image of popularity and national unity under his leadership.
But the opposition is not sitting back.
According to multiple sources and viral online messages, anti-government actors are encouraging disillusioned Kenyans to also attend the matches and chant “Wantam” — a now widely popular short form of “One Term” — a political jab implying Ruto should exit office after just one term. The chant has gained traction in urban centres, bars, matatus, and social media spaces, often accompanied by the anthem-like cry, “Ruto Must Go.”
Opposition politicians, some of whom are expected to show up at the stadiums, are reportedly planning to use the charged football atmosphere to stir up the crowd into anti-government protests. “Let CHAN be a mirror of the people’s discontent,” one MP aligned with the opposition said under anonymity.
The LOC, aware of the high stakes and potential for chaos, has rolled out strict security measures in coordination with law enforcement. This includes screening fans at least a kilometre from stadium entrances and a ban on match-day ticket sales when the Kenyan team is playing — moves intended to prevent the infiltration of rowdy elements and political agitators.
Still, critics argue these measures might be insufficient. With large crowds expected and the volatile political environment, fears persist that gangs could exploit the situation to loot or incite violence.
“This is not just football anymore — it’s a powder keg,” warned a senior police officer. “We’re ready, but it’s a delicate balancing act between letting fans enjoy the game and preventing political chaos.”
CHAN, which showcases homegrown talent from across the continent, was meant to be a moment of pride for Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania — marking the first time the tournament is jointly hosted by three countries. Yet, in Nairobi, all eyes are not just on the pitch, but on the stands — where chants may speak louder than the goals scored.
As the tournament begins tomorrow, Kenyans will be watching not only the matches, but the message the crowds choose to carry: Tutam or Wantam.
There's no story that cannot be told. We cover the stories that others don't want to be told, we bring you all the news you need. If you have tips, exposes or any story you need to be told bluntly and all queries write to us [email protected] also find us on Telegram
