Controversial lawyer Miguna Miguna is facing criticism from some Kenyans on social media over his recent political stance and his perceived support for President William Ruto’s administration.
The backlash comes against the backdrop of the June 2024 Gen Z protests, during which young Kenyans took to the streets to oppose the Finance Bill 2024. The demonstrations were met with a police crackdown, with reports of deaths, injuries and abductions that fuelled public anger and demands for accountability.
Miguna, who was once widely associated with radical opposition politics, initially expressed support for the Gen Z movement. However, critics now accuse him of abandoning the cause and aligning himself with a government they hold responsible for the violence witnessed during the protests.
Controversial blogger Maverick Aoko has made a serious allegation about the lawyer, claiming that he was offered KSh 30 million and that his daughter was promised employment at the National Intelligence Service (NIS).
Aoko also accused Miguna of using his X account to attack critics of the current administration. The claims have added to the online debate over his political position and whether it remains consistent with the activism that made him a prominent figure in Kenya’s opposition politics.
Miguna has a substantial following on X, reportedly running into millions. Some critics are interpreting the engagement on selected posts as a sign that his influence may be waning, although individual post-view counts alone cannot establish a wider loss of followers or public support.
The controversy highlights the divisions within Kenya’s political debate following the 2024 protests, particularly over accountability, political alliances and the role of prominent activists in challenging those in power.
