Nairobi, Kenya – Former Roots Party presidential candidate, Professor George Wajackoyah, has once again ignited heated national debate after suggesting that night-running should be officially recognised as a Kenyan talent and developed into a unique tourism attraction.
The lawyer, academic, and politician made the controversial proposal through social media, declaring:
“Roots Party recognises night runners as a talent. This will attract tourism.”
His remarks immediately went viral, sparking a mix of ridicule, amusement, and serious conversation among Kenyans both online and offline.
Mixed Reactions from Kenyans
As expected, Wajackoyah’s statement divided opinion. Some Kenyans dismissed the idea as impractical, questioning how tourists could safely experience night-running since it traditionally occurs in secrecy and darkness.
One social media user sarcastically asked, “These guys run at night, how will tourists get the opportunity to explore?” Another joked that Wajackoyah was acting as a “recruitment agent” for night-runners, while others suggested he was simply chasing clout.
However, a section of Kenyans argued that Wajackoyah’s eccentric proposals often carry hidden value. They noted that cultural practices, no matter how unusual, can sometimes be transformed into tourist attractions if well packaged.
Wajackoyah’s History of Unconventional Proposals
This is not the first time Wajackoyah has captured the public’s imagination with controversial ideas. During the 2022 general elections, he gained global attention through his Roots Party manifesto, which included:
- Legalising marijuana to generate revenue and offset Kenya’s debt.
- Exporting hyena testicles and dog meat for foreign exchange.
- Launching the “Shake the Tree Movement,” which symbolised a radical shake-up of Kenya’s political landscape.
Though he did not win the presidency, Wajackoyah has remained a household name thanks to his bold and often bizarre proposals, which continue to dominate conversations across Kenyan media.
Night-Running as a Cultural and Tourism Concept
Night-running is a practice traditionally associated with certain communities in Kenya, particularly in Western regions, where individuals are believed to run at night for cultural, ritualistic, or entertainment purposes. While often surrounded by mystery and superstition, it has become part of Kenya’s folklore.
Wajackoyah’s idea to transform it into a tourist attraction raises questions about how cultural traditions—no matter how unconventional—could be adapted into modern tourism. Kenya has long relied on safari tourism, coastal beaches, and wildlife, but embracing unique cultural practices could diversify the sector and create new experiences for visitors.
Wajackoyah’s Role in Public Discourse
Whether seen as satire, eccentricity, or genuine proposals, Wajackoyah’s statements continue to provoke national dialogue. His night-running suggestion has once again reinforced his reputation as one of Kenya’s most unconventional political thinkers—a man who thrives on pushing boundaries and challenging mainstream perceptions.
For now, the debate continues: is night-running tourism a brilliant cultural innovation waiting to happen, or just another outrageous idea in Wajackoyah’s long list of controversial proposals?
