Susan Mang'eni dismisses student 'Wantam' chants at university

Susan Mang'eni, the Principal Secretary for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) Development, has dismissed student chants of ‘Wantam’ during a speech at Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST). The incident occurred during a matriculation ceremony for first-year students.

In a statement, Mang'eni characterized the chant as a ‘joke’ and a product of ‘propaganda and lies.’ She asserted that the narrative would disappear once facts are presented and claimed that the crowd transitioned to applause by the end of her address. She further stated that President William Ruto’s re-election for a second term is ‘unstoppable.’

The viral video of the encounter has drawn mixed reactions in Kenya, with some citizens viewing the chant as a reflection of public sentiment toward the administration, while others labeled it disrespectful. The event followed recent remarks by President Ruto regarding the rights of citizens to criticize the government and participate in peaceful demonstrations.