The National Super Alliance (NASA) last week caused excitement after a successful two-day campaign tour in Tharaka Nithi and Meru Counties – both regions perceived to be Jubilee strongholds.
It has now emerged that a wealthy Mt Kenya businessman and prominent philanthropist has been funding the Opposition campaign activities in the region.
Millionaire Mike Mutembei, popularly referred to as Makarina, has been mobilising grassroots support for the NASA team.
Makarina, whom The Standard previously reported as one of the wealthiest businessmen in Meru and chairman of the powerful lobby group – Kenya Miraa Farmers and Traders Association –explained that he had decided to support the Opposition after the Jubilee government failed to protect the miraa trade.
He stated that although the Ameru have always supported Central Kenya for the presidency, time had come to part ways because there was no reciprocity.
Mutembei said he is not interested in running for office.
“I have been helping people for free and I don’t seek any elective post. All I want is to educate Kenyans, especially our Meru people. Raila is the best person to lead this country.
He understands the challenges of every region,” he stated during a recent interview.
Here are photos of Makarina who is the Africa Disabled Network patron:
[caption caption="Mike Mutembei (right)"]
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[caption caption="Mike Mutembei speaking to Kalonzo Musyoka during a past function"]
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