Things are tough, lobby group says, dismisses Ruto's economic recovery claims

The government has failed to deliver meaningful relief to Kenyans, despite President William Ruto’s claims of “reduced inflation and a stabilised shilling”, a lobby group has said.

Activists from Kongamano la Mageuzi (KLM) dismissed President Ruto’s assertion that the country is headed in the right direction, as reflected in his recent speeches, including the State of the Nation address. They argued that the reality on the ground for many Kenyans is far from optimistic.

Addressing journalists on Sunday, KLM spokesperson Sungu Oyoo outlined the challenges facing Kenyans, noting that Kenya Kwanza’s first two years in office have been marked by policies that have exacerbated economic inequality, deepened corruption, and restricted democratic freedoms.

"The government has failed to deliver tangible relief to the people, despite claims of economic improvement. Millions of households continue to struggle with skyrocketing food prices, exorbitant fuel costs, and unaffordable housing,” Oyoo said.

The group also criticised the government's fiscal austerity measures, which they claimed were ineffective in addressing widespread corruption. They pointed to scandals such as the fake fertiliser scam, which they say highlighted the administration’s prioritisation of the elite over the needs of ordinary citizens.

Punitive taxes

In response to the government's handling of the economy, Oyoo called on the government to repeal what he described as "punitive taxes" and to implement a tax system that alleviates the burden on low-income earners.

He further recommended establishing transparent oversight mechanisms to ensure that public funds are directed to critical sectors such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure.

While the activists voiced their concerns, President Ruto has maintained his stance that the government's efforts to revive the economy were bearing fruit.

Addressing his critics while speaking in Taita Taveta, Ruto asserted that the naysayers were motivated by selfish interests.

“We must stop the spirit of negativity. We cannot allow falsehoods and propaganda to tarnish our nation. This country will not fail. I sympathise with the naysayers and negative individuals who wish to see the nation fall. I urge Kenyans to reject slander, gossip, and propaganda from those who do not want the country to move forward. We will transform this nation,” he said.

Democracy and accountability

KLM also accused the President of hypocrisy regarding his commitment to democracy and accountability.

The group pointed to recent incidents such as extrajudicial killings, police brutality during peaceful protests, and a lack of transparency in public spending.

“The government’s failure to pass critical legislation like the Conflict of Interest Bill further underscores its lack of will to address governance failures,” Oyoo added.

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In a bid to draw attention to these concerns, the lobby group announced plans to hold a nationwide candle-lighting event on Christmas Day.

The event will commemorate those who lost their lives during the Gen Z protests against the Finance Bill of 2024. The group said the event will take place in places of worship and on the streets.