Willis Otieno: Coalitions must prioritise livelihoods over power
By Emmanuel Rono, April 26, 2026Safina Party Deputy Leader Willis Evans Otieno has urged coalitions to refocus their agendas on improving the lives of ordinary citizens rather than pursuing political power for its own sake.
According to Otieno, political alliances must prioritise policies that directly address the economic and social challenges facing Kenyans.
Taking to his X account on Sunday, April 26, 2026, Otieno argued that the value of leadership should be measured by its impact on citizens’ livelihoods and not the ability to secure or retain office.
“Coalitions need to shift the conversation back to citizens and focus on clearly selling agendas that improve livelihoods,” Otieno said.
Need for power
The lawmaker warned that holding power without delivering tangible change offers little benefit to the public, noting that key sectors such as healthcare and employment remain under strain.
“Power means little if it doesn’t translate into better living conditions. There is no real victory in holding office while critical issues like healthcare and unemployment remain unresolved and continue to weigh down ordinary Kenyans,” Otieno said.
Opposition agendas
President William Ruto has been attacking his political rivals, declaring that none of the leaders in the Opposition is sufficiently qualified to challenge him in the 2027 polls.
In his recent public attack while Addressing a rally in Nyamira on Monday, April 13, 2026, during a development tour, Ruto said his opponents lack the political weight, vision and track record needed to mount a serious contest against him.
“Do they really know me? If you weigh them, do you think there is anyone among them who is my size?” Ruto posed.
He jolted the opposition figures for what he described as a lack of a clear agenda,saying meaningful political competition must be anchored on ideas and policies rather than rhetoric.
“The Opposition should have an agenda, a plan and vision for the country and then we can compete. As things stand now, we cannot compete because they have no agenda, plan or manifesto,” he said.
Kindiki attack on opposition
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has also criticised opponents for engaging in a smear campaign aimed at undermining government efforts. He said this has divided the country into two groups: one committed to development and the other driven by incitement.
“We have two groups now. One group is focused on development, day and night, front and back, left and right. The other group is all about politics and incitement. They go around talking and inciting people, yet they have done nothing to help. Some of them were elected, but all they do is stir emotions,” he said.