CNN International Correspondent Larry Madowo has given a blunt response to a social media critic. The exchange follows his attendance at a private traditional engagement ceremony in Kilgoris, Narok County, last Saturday.
The event was the koito for Charlene Ruto, the President’s daughter, and her fiancé, Isaya Yunge. Madowo’s presence at the ceremony triggered a "cancel culture" movement among some sections of the Kenyan public who previously viewed him as a champion of Gen Z-led protests.
A Sharp Rebuttal
The most recent flashpoint occurred when a social media user named rangerstar_ issued a warning regarding Madowo's future reporting. The user suggested Madowo would no longer be welcome at protest sites.
"Tusikuone kwa maandamano wewe utatoka mbio na izo camera zako," the user commented.
Madowo did not shy away from the confrontation. He replied directly to the threat with a short, dismissive message.
"Sawa. Nitakuwa majuu nikipiga sherehe. Y’all be safe out there ✌🏾," Madowo wrote. His response indicates he will be abroad celebrating instead of covering the local unrest.
The backlash began shortly after photos of the Kilgoris event surfaced online. Since the 2024 Finance Bill protests, Madowo has been widely praised for his coverage of the youth-led movement. For some, his attendance at a presidential family function felt like a personal slight.
"I will never trust Larry Madowo again in my life! I feel used and betrayed," wrote one user, Thirsty Kipsoiwet. Another critic, Yasin, noted the perceived insensitivity of the visit. "We can't act normal when people died," he posted.
In a move that surprised many, Madowo leaned into the criticism. He posted the trending hashtag against himself on his own X account. "Cancel Larry Madowo," he wrote.
Friendship vs Politics
While the "cancel" campaign gained momentum, many others rushed to Madowo’s defence. They pointed out that his attendance was based on a long-standing friendship with the groom, Isaya Yunge.
"Charlene Ruto’s husband Isaya Yungeand Larry Madowo are good friends. Now you know why @LarryMadowo was in Kilgoris," explained Alinur Mohamed.
Other users argued that professional journalism should be separated from personal relationships. A user named Jungle stated, "Having a chitchat with the president is no reason to cancel you. I would also if I met him, we need to understand our disagreements are policy based and not personal beefs."
