Maureen Kori has been removed from the Democratic Congress Party main group after receiving Ksh22,000 in NYOTA funds through her M-Pesa account. The incident came to light yesterday when party members shared screenshots and statements online.
Kori, a known supporter in the group, accepted the money as part of a government empowerment programme. Some in the DCP see it as a form of bribe from the ruling side. She confirmed the transfer but said she did nothing wrong.
The Democratic Congress Party links back to former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. He started it after his fallout with President William Ruto in 2024. Gachagua got impeached that year over claims of misconduct. Since then, DCP has drawn members unhappy with the government.
They focus on issues like high taxes and tribal politics in the Mount Kenya region. Kori joined as an active voice, often posting about party events. Her removal sparked quick talk on social media.
NYOTA funds come from a state programme to help small groups and individuals. It gives out cash for things like business starts or education. The name means “star” in Swahili and is meant to lift people up.
But critics call it a way to buy votes. In Kori’s case, she got Ksh22,000, about $170. That amount helps with daily needs in rural spots. She said calls from friends and family made her think twice. They warned it looked like a trap.
Party insiders say the removal happened fast. Admins kicked her out of the WhatsApp group soon after the transfer showed up. Screenshots spread on Facebook and Instagram.
This is not the first clash over NYOTA. Last month, a similar case hit in Nyeri County. A local leader got funds and faced backlash from his party. Gachagua has spoken against such programmes.
He calls them tools to divide his supporters. In a rally last week, he urged members to stay loyal. Kori’s story fits that warning.
Social media lit up right away. Posts on X showed the M-Pesa message. One user said it proves the government targets opposition. Another laughed it off as small change. Comments ran into hundreds. Kori has not said if she will fight the removal. She might appeal to Gachagua directly.
DCP has grown since 2024. It claims thousands of members across Kenya. But funds stay low without state help. That makes NYOTA tempting for some. Kori comes from a farming background. She spoke at party meetings about hard times. The Ksh22,000 could buy seeds or pay school fees. But party hardliners see it as betrayal.
