John Methu Faces Online Backlash Over Bayern Munich And Ajax Stadium Opener.

Nyandarua Senator John Methu has found himself at the centre of an online debate after questioning plans to use public resources to host Bayern Munich and Ajax Amsterdam for the opening of the new Raila Odinga International Stadium in Nairobi.

Methu raised concerns shortly after President William Ruto announced that the two European football clubs would face each other at the 60,000-seater facility on January 5, 2027. “Is the stadium too good to be opened by taxpayers?” the senator asked in a social media post, prompting different reactions from Kenyans.

While some supported his concerns about accountability and the use of public money, others argued that the planned fixture would give local fans an opportunity to experience international football without travelling abroad. The debate took another turn when social media users resurfaced footage of Methu watching a match between West Ham United and Arsenal at London Stadium in England.

In the video, the senator appears to celebrate a West Ham goal that was later ruled out following a review by the video assistant referee (VAR). Methu had also shared footage from the match online, expressing support for West Ham and questioning the officiating.

Some critics accused him of applying double standards, arguing that he had travelled abroad to enjoy top-level football while questioning a plan that could bring prominent European teams to Kenya.

Other users defended the senator, maintaining that his personal experience of watching football in England did not prevent him from raising legitimate questions about how the Nairobi event would be financed.

Supporters of the planned fixture said hosting the clubs could boost Kenya’s international profile, attract visitors and create business opportunities for hotels, restaurants and other enterprises. Others insisted that the government should explain the financial arrangements before committing public resources.

Ruto announced that Bayern Munich and Ajax Amsterdam would play the stadium’s opening match at Talanta Sports City on January 5, 2027. The facility is also expected to play a role in Kenya’s preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, which the country will co-host with Uganda and Tanzania.

The President has said the opening event will rely on corporate partnerships and a commercially sustainable model aimed at attracting private investment and generating revenue.

The debate ultimately raises two questions: how Kenya can benefit from hosting major international sporting events, and how authorities will ensure that the public receives value for money. For Methu, the online reaction has highlighted how quickly a political statement can turn into a wider debate about accountability, opportunity and consistency.

Alien Flani [email protected]