Khalwale to Ruto: Even If You Bring Bayern Munich and Ajax, After the Match You Will Go to Sugoi

Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale has criticised President William Ruto’s planned Bayern Munich versus Ajax Amsterdam match, saying the high-profile football event will not change Kenyans’ concerns about the government’s performance.

Speaking during a Linda Mwananchi political rally in Kwale County, Khalwale argued that hosting famous European clubs would not make voters forget the economic difficulties facing ordinary citizens.

He took aim at the President, saying that even if the government brought Bayern Munich and Ajax to Kenya, Ruto would still face political rejection. Khalwale used the phrase “after the match, you will go to Sugoi” to suggest that the spectacle would not change the political mood among voters.

The senator also raised concerns about the cost of living and the challenges facing small-scale traders, poultry farmers and public transport operators.

He argued that the government should give greater attention to the livelihoods of ordinary Kenyans instead of relying on high-profile events to win public support.

Khalwale further called on the government to address historical land grievances at the Coast and ensure that communities receive fair treatment and access to national resources.

His remarks came amid a wider debate over the decision to open the new Raila Odinga International Stadium, popularly known as Talanta Stadium, with a friendly match between Bayern Munich and Ajax Amsterdam on January 5, 2027.

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has also questioned the choice of teams, arguing that Kenyan clubs or the national team should have been included in the historic occasion.

In an interview with KTN on October 28, Gachagua asked why a stadium built using public funds would have its opening match played exclusively by foreign clubs.

He suggested that established local sides such as Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards could have been given the opportunity to feature. Alternatively, he said, one of the European clubs could have played against Harambee Stars to ensure that Kenyan players were represented.

Gachagua also questioned what the decision meant for national pride and the recognition of local football talent.

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