Former Roots Party presidential running mate Justina Wamae has stirred debate with her latest statement calling for a shift towards capitalism as Kenya’s path to economic recovery.

In a post shared on X on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, Wamae argued that Kenya’s future depends on embracing a system that empowers the private sector to drive growth, create jobs, and solve national challenges sustainably.

Justina Wamae pointed out the country’s struggle in the economy and rising unemployment as evidence that state-led solutions have failed to deliver.

“With Kenya’s numerous problems, what Kenya needs is capitalism as an economic system,” she stated.

Wamae explained that in a capitalist model, the private sector should take the lead in owning and organising the factors of production.

“The private sector owns the factors of production; they organise these factors of production to solve a problem while making profits,” she said.

Profit as motivator

According to her, profit-making should not be viewed negatively but rather as a key motivator for innovation and productivity.

“These profits will motivate the private sector to continue solving the problem as they create jobs and any other money-making opportunities,” she added.

She further noted that the government’s role under such a system should be limited to creating an enabling environment rather than competing with the private sector.

“Government at this point will be lean and there to support the private sector with strategic policy, legislation, regulations and incentives,” she said.

Her remarks come at a time when many Kenyans are grappling with the high cost of living, increased taxes, and a shrinking job market. Wamae’s call for capitalism, where the private sector drives development while the government focuses on policy and oversight, has reignited discussions about Kenya’s economic direction and leadership priorities.

Ending her statement with a challenge to citizens, she wrote that Kenyans have a choice. “The choice is yours, beloved Kenyans. Good morning?” she stated, a message that many interpreted as a rallying call for change in mindset and governance philosophy.