Professor George Wajackoyah, the 2020 general elections Roots Party presidential candidate, has once again captured the public’s attention with a controversial proposal.

Taking to social media, the scholar and lawyer suggested that the practice of night-running should be recognised as a talent and leveraged to boost tourism.

The idea has since generated a wide range of reactions online, from humorous mockery to serious consideration.

Roots Party leader George Wajackoyah // Facebook

The post by Wajackoyah declared that the "Roots party recognizes night runners as a talent. This will attract tourism."

This statement quickly became a talking point, with Kenyans sharing their thoughts on the unusual suggestion.

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Mixed Reactions from the Public

Online comments show a mix of scepticism and curiosity. One user, named Sospeter Ikome, questioned the logistics of the idea, asking: "These guys run at night, how will tourists get the opportunity to explore?"

Another commenter joked about the idea, suggesting Wajackoyah was a "Recruitment Agent" for the runners.

Roots Party leader George Wajackoyah // Facebook

However, some reactions showed a more thoughtful side. Samuel Nyabuto suggested the idea could be a positive step, writing: "Not a bad Idea, instead of wasting talent they can use it to avoid idleness and therefore make villages safe."

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Another user, Bry-o Kipruto, even considered the idea from an academic perspective, stating: "If it is a full four-year course in Pwani University, why can’t we embrace it fully and tap the source of power that we have never shared."

“Not a bad Idea, instead of wasting talent, they can use it to avoid idleness and therefore make villages safe,another one added.

Roots Party leader George Wajackoyah // Facebook

A History of Bold Proposals

Wajackoyah’s latest suggestion is in line with his history of making bold, unconventional proposals.

During the 2022 general election, his Roots Party manifesto contained a number of other controversial ideas that made headlines. These included the legalisation of bhang (marijuana) for commercial purposes to help pay off Kenya’s national debt.

He also proposed to export hyena testicles and dog meat to China and other countries, arguing these would be lucrative ventures.

These proposals, along with hisShake the Tree Movement,were met with widespread debate and became a defining feature of his presidential campaign.

Roots Party leader George Wajackoyah // Facebook

Continued Public Engagement

While Wajackoyah did not win the presidency, he has remained a significant figure in public discourse.

His willingness to put forward eccentric ideas continues to draw attention, and his social media posts often become a platform for public debate.

This latest post on night-running is no different. It has once again put the spotlight on Wajackoyah’s unique approach to politics and his ability to engage the public with proposals that defy conventional expectations.

The conversation continues as people debate whether his ideas are pure political theatre or genuine attempts to find alternative solutions to Kenya's problems.

Roots Party leader George Wajackoyah // Facebook