Former presidential candidate George Wajackoyah has once again sparked conversation after weighing in on one of Kenya’s most unusual and controversial traditions — night running.
Wajackoyah argued that people who practise night running should not simply be treated as a source of fear or ridicule, saying they could potentially turn their unusual talent into a source of income.
The lawyer and politician made the remarks while discussing the growing popularity of night-running stories in Kenya, particularly in parts of the western region.
Wajackoyah says night runners have a talent
According to Wajackoyah, night runners possess an ability that could be transformed into something productive rather than leaving them on the margins of society.
He suggested that instead of being feared or condemned, the individuals could be encouraged to use their skills in ways that benefit them financially.
His comments quickly attracted attention because night running remains a subject surrounded by mystery, superstition and humour in many Kenyan communities.
For years, stories of people allegedly moving around at night, sometimes jumping over fences or appearing in unexpected places, have fascinated Kenyans.
A controversial Kenyan tradition
Night running is particularly associated with some communities in western Kenya, where stories about people engaging in the practice have been passed down through generations.
Although some people regard it as a cultural phenomenon, others associate it with witchcraft or other supernatural beliefs.
The subject has also become popular on social media, where videos and stories about alleged night runners regularly generate heated debates and jokes.
Wajackoyah’s suggestion therefore touches on a subject that many Kenyans have strong opinions about.
Wajackoyah’s unusual solution
Rather than focusing on whether night running should be condemned or tolerated, Wajackoyah took a different approach.
He suggested that those involved could potentially earn money from their abilities.
His argument appears to be that unusual talents can be commercialised when properly channelled.
The idea has inevitably raised eyebrows, with some Kenyans likely to view it as a joke while others see it as another example of Wajackoyah’s unconventional approach to social issues.
The politician has built a reputation for making bold and sometimes unexpected proposals, both during his 2022 presidential campaign and in his public commentary since then.
Social media reacts
Wajackoyah’s remarks have given Kenyans another reason to debate the age-old night-running phenomenon.
For some, the idea of paying night runners sounds absurd.
For others, however, his comments raise a more serious question about how society treats people whose behaviour or abilities fall outside what is considered normal.
Either way, the former presidential candidate has once again managed to turn an unusual subject into a national talking point.
And if Wajackoyah gets his way, perhaps Kenya’s night runners could one day stop running for free.
