A photo of Nyandarua Senator John Methu and EALA MP Kanini Kega watching a football match at a stadium in England has sparked mixed reactions online.

The image emerged less than 12 hours after the two politicians weighed in on President William Ruto's plan to open the Raila Odinga International Stadium with a match involving two European football giants.

The debate began on Wednesday, October 28, when Ruto announced that German club Bayern Munich and Dutch side Ajax would play at the new facility on January 5, 2027. The 60,000-seater stadium is located at Talanta Sports City in Nairobi.

The announcement was welcomed by some football fans. However, it also drew criticism from opposition leaders who questioned the decision to invite foreign clubs for the opening match.

Methu was among those who expressed reservations about the plan. In his reaction, the senator questioned whether the stadium was too good to be opened by taxpayers.

Kega also joined the debate. He argued that even bringing Arsenal and Manchester United to Kenya would not change the country's problems.

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua also criticised the plan, as questions emerged over the choice of foreign teams and the significance of the event.

The image has prompted some Kenyans to question the apparent contrast between their criticism of hosting foreign teams in Kenya and their decision to watch a match at a stadium abroad.

Others may argue that watching international football and questioning how Kenya organises a major sporting event are two separate issues.

The debate has also drawn attention to the role of the new stadium as Kenya prepares to co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations alongside Tanzania and Uganda.

SOURCE: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1F94AD2t4M/