Willis Otieno: Economy will decide Kenya’s political future
By Emmanuel Rono, June 7, 2026Safina Party deputy leader Willis Otieno has stated that despite shifting political debates and alliances, the state of the economy remains the issue for millions of Kenyans and will ultimately determine how leaders are judged.
In a statement on his X account on Sunday, June 7, 2026, Otieno argued that while political discussions often move from one topic to another, ordinary citizens continue to grapple with economic challenges that directly affect their daily lives.
“The political debate may shift from issue to issue, but for millions of Kenyans the central question remains unchanged: the economy,” he said.
High cost of living
According to Otieno, many families are struggling to cope with the high cost of living, while young people face limited employment opportunities despite completing their education.
He added that businesses are operating under immense pressure as economic conditions become increasingly difficult.
He noted that the strain on households, entrepreneurs and public services has made economic performance the key benchmark through which citizens assess those in power.
“Families are struggling with a high cost of living, young people are searching for jobs that do not exist, businesses are operating under immense pressure, and public services are increasingly strained,” he stated.
How economic status shapes politics
Otieno emphasised that governments are ultimately judged not by political rhetoric, promises or public relations campaigns, but by the economic realities experienced by citizens.
“When households cannot afford basic necessities, when graduates cannot find meaningful employment, and when entrepreneurs are fighting to stay afloat, economic performance becomes the defining measure of leadership,” he said.