John-Allan Namu, founder of Africa Uncensored and an acclaimed investigative journalist, has addressed recent online criticism regarding his media organization’s foreign funding and rumors about a potential town hall-style debate with President William Ruto.
Namu, who gained prominence for his investigative journalism at Kenya Television Network (KTN), faced criticism on July 18 after a popular blogger revealed that his media company received a $250,000 (Ksh. 33 million) grant from the Ford Foundation around August 2023.
The Ford Foundation had recently been in the news following President Ruto’s accusations of its involvement in funding nationwide anti-government protests.
In response to the criticism, Namu confirmed receiving funding from the Ford Foundation, emphasizing that such support was crucial for maintaining the independence of his work. He urged Kenyans to evaluate him based on his journalistic output rather than the source of his funding.
“This is true. We have never denied or hidden our sources of funding or partnerships. I have always said that the proof of our intentions is the work we do. I’m ready to defend all the work we have put in,” he wrote.
Despite the clarification, the questions still lingered, prompting the journalist to release a full statement not only in defence of his own organisation but that of various other key Kenyan media entities.
Part of the statement read: “Today, I want to express my gratitude for the many messages I’ve received, which indicate that a large number of you recognize the vile attempt to discredit the work of Africa Uncensored. Thank you all. You have upheld our work as a beacon, corrected us when we were wrong, and now you stand with us. However, this fight is about more than just our credibility; it is about everyone’s voices.”
“We are also facing nefarious onslaughts in the courts via SLAPP suits i.e legal action filed by an individual or organization primarily to intimidate, silence, or censor critics by burdening them with the cost and effort of a legal defence.
“The situation has now escalated to include the abductions of journalists. Media freedom is the lifeblood through which journalism flourishes, but it is not a privilege only for journalists.
“If you have ever wondered what it would be like to live in a time when your freedoms were at stake, wonder no more. We at Africa Uncensored stand by our and our professional colleagues’ right to report and enjoy the freedoms guaranteed by our constitution to the fullest extent, in line with our code of ethics. We stand by your right to use your voices in the same way,” said Namu.
Support for John-Allan Namu has significantly outweighed the criticism, with many Kenyans expressing solidarity and encouraging him to continue his work. Activist Hanifa Adan praised Namu, stating, “You’re a good man Allan. All the work you’ve done will never be forgotten. Thank you for listening and forever your fan!”
Another individual noted, “People attacking @johnallannamu because of Ford Foundation funding are unaware that the same foundation supports various sectors, including the judiciary, DPP, education, and health. Does that mean all these departments are working to destabilize Ruto’s government?”
Despite speculation about Namu planning to host President William Ruto for a town hall discussion on Kenya’s political situation, he has yet to provide clarity on the matter, simply responding with, “Guys, I hear you.”
