In June 2022, Pauline Waithera, a fruit vendor hailing from Kiambu town in Kenya, found herself in the national spotlight.
How Ruto changed my life - Mama Mboga responds to claims of abandonment [Video]
Pauline Waithera sets the record straight about allegations of abandonment by President Ruto
Pauline Waithira selling avocados in the market
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Her endorsement of President William Ruto's presidential bid at the Bomas of Kenya drew widespread attention.
However, Nation published a story from an interview with Waithera which claimed that Waithera had been used and subsequently abandoned by Ruto.
Waithera has denied these claims, asserting that she has received continuous support from the president.
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In a video shared by ICT Chief Administrative Secretary Dennis Itumbi, Pauline Waithera took the opportunity to clarify the nature of her relationship with William Ruto.
President William Ruto and Pauline Waithera at the height of the 2022 presidential campaigns
President William Ruto and Pauline Waithira at the height of the 2022 presidential campaigns
Pulse Live Kenya
Contrary to the reports, Waithera disclosed that Ruto had generously gifted her a sum of Sh300,000 and had consistently provided support since she endorsed him.
She said that through the help she received, she has been able to provide for her children's education and meet their basic needs.
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Waithera expressed her gratitude towards Ruto's ongoing support, affirming that he has been an influential figure in her life since 2013.
However, the fruit vendor also voiced her frustration regarding a journalist whom she claimed had taken her photograph without permission.
Pauline Waithera (white headscarf) and Calvince Okoth (behind DP Ruto) presented their Identity Cards in support of DP Ruto's candidature. The former was proposer while the latter was the seconder.
Pulse Live Kenya
Waithera claimed that the person who introduced themself as a journalist had not conducted an interview or questioned her about her association with Ruto.
She went on to say that despite the reports, she was fully behind President Ruto.
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