Investigative Journalist and Founder of Africa Uncensored John Allan Namu has been pressured to explain reports of receiving money from American based organization Ford Foundation.
According to the reports shared online, Namu received $200,000 in grant from the company in August 2023, and an additional $50,000 in April 2024.
In response to the allegations, Namu said that the information was true, adding that African Uncensored has never hidden its sources of 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 said in response to allegations of receiving funding for violence.
![John Allan Namu](http://thekenyatimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/allllan-750x375-1.jpg)
Also Read: Ford Foundation Answers Ruto After Accusation of Sponsoring Protests
Kenyans Call Out John Allan Namu for Inviting Ruto
At the same time, the journalist has received a lot of heat from Kenyans for inviting President William Ruto to a townhall baraza meeting.
Kenyans online have expressed their disappointment in the move reiterating that they do not to have any dialogue with the head of state concerning the ongoing protest across the country.
Brenda Wambui asked Mark Masai, a journalist, and Namu to officially call of the planned townhall meeting or withdraw the extended invitation to the president.
“Hey Mark Masai and John Allan Namu. Please call off that town hall with William Ruto. I’m stating the obvious here, but he will use your credibility to launder his reputation. It may seem like “good journalism”, but this is irresponsible behavior,” she said. A sentiment that was supported by many other X users.
However, Namu has been defended by Kenyans who have maintained that his work is independent and credible despite receiving grants from Ford Foundation.
“There’s nothing wrong with grant funding for a good cause. Most of the marginalized communities’ economic projects are funded through grants because money from Counties is stolen to buy crates of Sodas for a million bob.
“Our hospitals are funded through grants to offer more training to their staff. You should not use thinly veiled undertones to question John Allan’s integrity especially at a time like this, when we need all the people that stand with the TRUTH,” stated User Lenny Papito.
At the same time, User Nana KC said that African uncensored is free to receive grants to continue with its work
“If Africa Uncensored did a funding proposal and won the grant. No problem with that. This Ford foundation funds even judiciary. What’s wrong with them funding journalism work,” states KC.
Also Read: Ford Foundation: Inside American NGO Ruto Accuses of Funding Protests in Kenya
Ford Foundation Refutes Claims of Funding Protests
Speaking on Monday, July 15, President Ruto accused the Ford Foundation of sponsoring violence during the anti-government protests.
Ruto claimed that the Foundation hired goons to cause chaos during the demonstrations leading to destruction of property and looting of businesses.
However, the American Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) Ford Foundation denied the accusations adding that it acknowledges the right of Kenyans to peacefully advocate for a just and equitable country.
The Foundation rejected any actions or speech that are hateful or advocate violence against any institution, individual, or community in Kenya.
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