Maureen Kori, a youth leader and aspiring politician from Kirinyaga County, has reportedly been expelled from the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) following allegations that she accepted money from President William Ruto’s Nyota Empowerment programme. Party officials viewed this as a breach of loyalty and ideological commitment.
Kori gained national attention after attending a high-profile DCP rally linked to former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, where she enthusiastically joined the party’s popular “One Tam” chant—a symbol of unity and resistance within the DCP movement.
Images and videos from the event circulated widely online, with many supporters praising her as a rising grassroots mobiliser and potential future political contender.
The situation shifted when Kori was later spotted attending an event associated with the Nyota Empowerment programme, which focuses on youth and women empowerment through financial support and is closely aligned with the ruling government. Reports that she may have received funds from the initiative reportedly angered DCP leaders.
Sources indicate that Kori was accused of engaging with a rival political camp while still publicly identifying with DCP.
In response, the party moved quickly to distance itself from her, announcing her removal and stressing the need for members to maintain ideological consistency and unwavering commitment.
The controversy has sparked intense debate online. Some Kenyans have criticised what they call political opportunism, while others argue that empowerment programmes should remain accessible and non-partisan. Kori has yet to publicly comment on the allegations, and her silence has fueled further speculation about her political trajectory.
This episode highlights the growing tensions in Kenya’s political landscape, where shifting alliances and state-backed initiatives continue to blur the lines between governance and partisan politics.
Maureen Kori’s next move may determine whether she consolidates her influence or gradually fades from the political spotlight.
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Politics