In a hurry? Here’s a quick summary…
- Activist Mercy Tarus and civic educator Morara Kebaso are in a dispute over the ownership of the slogan “Kenya Ni Home,” with Tarus accusing Kebaso of stealing her phrase.
- Despite Tarus’s claims, it has been revealed that the phrase was used by Joan Kanini in 2013, leading to some support for Kebaso and suggestions of alternative slogans.
A heated controversy has erupted between activist Mercy Tarus and civic educator Morara Kebaso over the ownership of the phrase “Kenya Ni Home.”
Tarus, who gained prominence after the Uasin Gishu Finland scandal and became a leading voice in recent protests, claimed on September 18 via her X account that the slogan is her intellectual property and accused Kebaso of misappropriating it.
What began as a simple tweet from Kebaso quickly escalated into a public feud as Tarus criticized him for allegedly stealing her phrase and lacking originality.
She accused Kebaso of using the phrase for his own political gain, stating that his actions had strayed from genuine civic engagement to self-serving political rallies.
Tarus expressed frustration, demanding that Kebaso create his own slogan and not infringe on her initiative.
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In response, Tarus shared screenshots of private conversations with Kebaso, alleging that he had previously sought her advice on political messaging and branding.
She claimed to have guided him on how to market himself politically, only to see him adopt her slogan without acknowledgment.
Kebaso, meanwhile, appeared to sidestep the confrontation, focusing on his daily activities and seeking feedback from supporters through X polls.
Despite this, Tarus continued to assert that “Kenya Ni Home” is her officially registered initiative, with ongoing projects and plans, including a school.
The dispute became so intense that Canadian lawyer and commentator Miguna Miguna intervened, urging both parties to resolve the issue without further conflict.
Miguna advised Kebaso to find an alternative slogan to avoid unnecessary distractions.
Adding to the complexity, it has emerged that the phrase “Kenya Ni Home” was used by politician and governance expert Joan Kanini in a tweet from 2013, before Tarus adopted it as her trademark slogan.
As the debate continues, some Kenyans have rallied in support of Kebaso, suggesting alternative slogans and advising Tarus to let go of the claim.