Sifuna: Our ‘noise’ is bearing fruits

Nairobi County Senator and ODM Secretary General, Edwin Sifuna, believes that the persistent push from the opposition is starting to yield positive results and influence the Kenya Kwanza administration’s decisions.

The Azimio la Umoja – One Kenya Senator, who has been vocal about the coalition’s push for reduced cost of living, sees some of the government’s recent actions as evidence that the opposition’s efforts are making an impact.

“It appears sense is starting to prevail. The backtracking on the disastrous GtoG oil importation program, the return of fuel subsidies, the backtracking on the privatization of sugar mills, the writing off of their debts, backtracking by the regime on Privatization without parliamentary approval, are all indicators that our ‘noise’ works,” he tweeted.

He further emphasized that Azimio would continue to push for other pressing issues, especially those related to the cost of living, and would not be deterred by insults or criticism.

“We will keep pushing the remaining issues, especially on the cost of living. Now that we dragged the ostrich to the table, we will not allow it to leave until it hears us out.”

It appears sense is starting to prevail. The backtracking on the disastrous GtoG oil importation program, the return of fuel subsidies, the backtracking on privatization of sugar mills, writing off of their debts, backtracking by the regime on Privatization without parliamentary…

— Edwin Sifuna (@edwinsifuna) August 23, 2023

While noting that there might be backlash and insults from UDA members, Sifuna stressed that their focus is on addressing the concerns of the people.

“They will throw snide remarks and insults to try and trigger us, but because this isn’t about us we will trudge on and make sure YOUR message is delivered. Sort out Mwananchi issues and you are welcome to insult us all day,” he concluded.

His comments come in the wake of the government’s decision to reinstate subsidy to stabilize retail fuel prices for 30 days.

This move followed months of criticism after President William Ruto had previously removed subsidies on fuel and maize flour, citing a preference for subsidizing production over consumption.

Ruto’s initial decision to remove these subsidies was, according to him, part of cost-cutting measures as the government grappled with debt repayment challenges.

However, the subsidy cuts and recent tax increases have led to a rise in the cost of living and triggered protests against the government.

Additionally, the government recently abandoned plans to privatize state-owned sugar mills due to concerns from various stakeholders.

In a meeting chaired by Ruto at Sagana State Lodge, the Cabinet reversed its earlier decision to privatize these financially troubled entities in a bid to prevent their collapse.

Instead, the Cabinet approved a program for the revival and commercialization of these state-owned sugar companies.

Furthermore, the National Treasury has sought Parliament’s approval to write off loans and tax penalties totalling Ksh117.64 billion owed by five sugar companies.