Popular matatu SACCO Super Metro on Friday, November 8, took to social media to address viral images depicting one of their Public Service Vehicles bearing the viral ‘Murima’ graffiti.
The images, which are largely used to banter the Kenya Kwanza government and President William Ruto, depict a man cutting a tree with the label ‘Murima’ on it. In another image, a man is on his knees, seemingly begging forgiveness from people depicted as ardent churchgoers.
Through their official social media pages, the SACCO clarified that a photo of their matatu that had been shared online was photoshopped.
An image of a Super Metro matatu bearing fake ‘Murima’ graffiti. PHOTO/ Super Metro.
The term ‘Murima has grown in popularity in recent months after it was coined by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
At the height of political temperatures, Gachagua used the term several times to refer to the people of Mount Kenya. He also, infamously, cautioned political leaders from ‘touching’ the Mount Kenya voter bloc.
The former Deputy President was popular for shooting from the hip whenever he toured the Mount Kenya region, which is largely considered his political backyard.
Eventually, the ‘Murima’ moniker stuck with Kenyans, who have since resorted to creating a series of cheeky graffiti to poke fun at the political situation in the country – perhaps as a coping mechanism.
After Super Metro denied the existence of the controversial graffiti on their bus, a section of cheeky Kenyans taunted the SACCO for apparently being afraid of the government.
With Gachagua now impeached and Kithure Kindiki sworn in as Kenya’s new second-in-command, there is a wave of uncertainty on who is the Mount Kenya kingpin.
While speaking at the funeral of businesswoman Lucy Wambui earlier this week in Kiambaa, Kiambu County, Gachagua looked back at his impeachment and how his followers reacted.
“Many people are calling me, asking what is going to happen. Please, do not worry… Our community is very unique, and many were surprised. They expected people to take to the streets, lighting bonfires, destroying vehicles, shouting – but no, that is not who we are. These people do not know us well. When we feel offended, we keep quiet,” Gachagua said.
He also encouraged Mount Kenya people to express themselves through song and dance, instead of taking to the streets.
“Say nothing, and if you feel strongly that you must express yourself, do it through song and dance,” he added.
Rigathi Gachagua speaking during a burial on Tuesday, November 5. PHOTO/ Courtesy.
