Former President Uhuru Kenyatta left mourners in stitches on Friday, September 18, 2026, after jokingly embracing the nickname “Sponyo” during the burial ceremony of Maitu Christine Nelly Waruguru Kariuki in Gikuu, Kiharu, Murang’a County.
Uhuru, who was attending the funeral of the respected matriarch and mother of former State House Deputy Comptroller George Kariuki, lightened the mood with a spontaneous remark at the end of his speech.
The former President joked that speaking off-the-cuff had become “dangerous” for him before signing off with a reference to the nickname that has been used by his political critics and opponents.
“Ahsanteni sana, ni hayo machache kutoka kwa sponyo. Tutaonana na tutaendelea kuwa pamoja,” Uhuru said, drawing laughter from the mourners.
Uhuru Kenyatta reads the eulogy, delivers the solemnities, then casually concludes:
“Ni hayo tu machache kutoka kwa SPONYO.”
That “sponyo” is Sheng for “sponsor.”
Uhuru Kenyatta is actually very funny. The man can roast you while maintaining a completely straight face.
And… pic.twitter.com/pSRAfpb9tw
— ???? ???? (@ouma_neko) September 18, 2026
The “Sponyo” tag has featured prominently in Kenya’s political discourse, particularly in connection with claims made by President William Ruto that Uhuru has been sponsoring political activities and opposition figures, including Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna and Linda Mwanaichi’s political team.
Rather than shy away from the moniker, Uhuru appeared to turn it into a moment of humour, leaving the crowd amused as he prepared to take his seat.
The former President was among several prominent figures who attended the burial ceremony, including Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro, former Interior Cabinet Secretary and 2027 presidential aspirant Fred Matiang’i, and former State House Comptroller Kinuthia Mbugua.
Maitu Christine was remembered as a respected Kenyan matriarch, entrepreneur and community pillar. Her son, George Kariuki, served as Deputy Comptroller of State House during Uhuru’s administration.
The former President’s light-hearted closing remark provided a brief moment of levity during a solemn ceremony, as mourners responded with laughter to his unexpected decision to own the political nickname.
