Tree-Hugging for Ruto: Pastor Kanyari Vows 150-Hour Marathon for ‘Tutam’

Controversial Kenyan preacher Victor Kanyari has once again ignited a storm on social media. His latest announcement involves a marathon tree-hugging session to support President William Ruto.

Kanyari shared his intentions via his official Facebook page, sparking thousands of reactions.

A Peculiar Vow for ‘Tutam’

The pastor declared that he is ready to hug a tree for 150 hours. His goal is to ensure Kenyans embrace the President’s philosophies and his 2027 re-election bid, popularly known as ‘Tutam’.

"Nashika mti kuanzia kesho for 150 hours hadi mpende President William Ruto... #TutamIsReal,” Kanyari’s Facebook page posted.

The post immediately went viral, drawing a mix of ridicule, anger, and a few pockets of support. While the pastor seems determined, many users questioned his motives and his mental state.

The Online Backlash

The comment section was flooded with users who were far from convinced by the gesture. Several followers labelled him a "Prophet of doom.”

Wilkister Eng'urat dismissed the stunt, saying, "As if we care, you can as well convert to a tree. Another user, Vehicle-autodiagnostic, added, "Kojoa tu uachilie. We're not boarding.”

ALSO READ: Pastor Kanyari Breaks Silence as Kenyans Question Why His Kids Are Still Living with Their Stepdad

Some users brought up the upcoming election cycle. David Kariuki told the pastor to "Hug it until 2027, and you will still not move us."

Meanwhile, Isaac Ongeri mocked the duration, asking, "Why not 310 hours?"

Political Motives or Spiritual Guidance?

Many Kenyans expressed concern that the preacher was choosing politics over his spiritual calling. Chris Oswoma noted, "Nabii anaongea kupenda Ruto badala ya kupenda Yesu. Umechanganyikiwa."

Bryan Karonya echoed this sentiment, stating, "Huyu amechanganyikiwa instead ya ku serve God unaanza mambo ya dunia ya siasa tena? Shame on you."

Others suggested the move was a financial strategy. Shyrra Mbugua commented, "He doesn’t love Ruto, he’s crafting a way of getting money from him lol."

George Egh suggested the pastor was seeking protection, writing, "Huyu amesikia fake prophets wanachunguzwa akaanza kusupport Ruto."

The Growing Tree-Hugging Trend

Kanyari is not the first person to use tree-hugging as a public statement recently. This trend gained momentum following Truphena Muthoni, who completed a high-profile tree-hugging bid to raise environmental awareness.

Her success has seemingly inspired various Kenyans to launch their own versions of the challenge for different causes.

Despite the heavy criticism, Kanyari found a small number of supporters. Shiku Murungi simply posted, "Tutam Confirmed," while Siveta Raha encouraged him, saying, "Prophet Kanyari shika mti kabisa ata mimi nasema TUTAM."

However, the majority of the feedback remained harsh. Julius Kamau concluded the sentiment for many by saying, "Get hold of crocodile... the rest of your life who cares."