Let’s chart new course of integrity and equity

As the year ends, it is time for the political elite and ordinary Kenyans to reflect on our journey as a nation, and plan for a future free from the burdens of deception and exploitation of the little man that have been the cornerstone of the past 11 months.

The past year, marred by economic hardship, soaring taxes, and pervasive corruption, calls for honest introspection and a commitment to genuine change if the country needs to move forward.

The alarming trend of unchecked plunder of public resources, exemplified by questionable deals like Adani and others, have betrayed the trust of Kenyans who look to their leaders for solutions to daily struggles.

The year began with the cost of living reaching unbearable levels for most Kenyans but eased, thanks to the rains. Despite the promises of economic stability and relief, the government’s policies have often exacerbated the plight of ordinary citizens.

Many were forced to tighten their belts as basic necessities became luxuries, and each paycheque vanished under the weight of escalating taxes and rising inflation, which swallowed every extra coin made by the little man out there.

Obviously, the Gen Z rebellion that erupted mid-year was a powerful reminder that the frustrations of the people cannot be ignored indefinitely. It was a rare but vital moment of collective defiance, a stance against a government that appeared detached from the realities of its people.

The resistance succeeded in stalling the oppressive 2024 Finance Bill, which sought to burden already struggling Kenyans with additional taxes, but only for a moment.

Yet, even with this move, Kenyans are witnessing a stealthy reintroduction of many of the bill’s regressive proposals. As Kenyans grow weary of resistance, the government slyly normalises policies that further impoverish the population.

The employed class, the backbone of Kenya’s economy, now takes home less than 60 per cent of their income after taxes. This, coupled with surging living costs, leaves families grappling with a precarious existence as they take home less and less, even after resisting the Housing Levy and contribution to the new Social Health Insurance Fund.

Unfortunately, Value Added Tax (VAT) and other levies compound the misery employees face, ensuring that what little is left in workers’ pockets is eroded with every purchase.

It is disheartening to see hardworking Kenyans, who dutifully contribute to the country’s development, being punished for their productivity. Instead of incentivising innovation and enterprise, the government has turned taxation into an exploitative tool that drains the very lifeblood of its economy.

This exploitation is compounded by the betrayal of public trust through grand corruption and questionable deals where a clique in power is amassing wealth faster than the growth of the economy. The Adani scandal, among others, signals the blatant prioritisation of elite interests over the welfare of ordinary citizens. It is no secret that such deals funnel billions into private coffers while the nation’s healthcare, education, and infrastructure systems remain underfunded.

Recently, the number of potholes on our roads countrywide are proof of the grim reality of the state of the nation. Leaders must recognise that public office is a sacred trust, not an opportunity to plunder.

As politicians take a break and go to rest, they must look ahead to the coming year with the focus of shifting from making empty promises to prioritising the people’s welfare.

Political leaders must abandon the culture of dishonesty and align their actions with their words. Kenyans, too, must demand more from those in power. Civic vigilance, grassroots mobilisation, and an informed electorate are crucial in ensuring that leaders are held accountable for their decisions.

It is a no brainer: The road to economic recovery lies in prudent fiscal policies, transparency, and investment in sectors that directly benefit the public. Instead of burdening the employed with endless taxes, the government should widen its tax base by integrating the informal sector, streamlining revenue collection, and curbing corruption. Every shilling lost to graft is a shilling stolen from the future of Kenya.

As 2025 approaches, we Kenyans and the power that be, must chart a new course that prioritises integrity, equity, and progress.

— The writer is People Daily’s Business Editor