Kongamano la Mapinduzi, a grassroots movement advocating for social justice, has issued a sharp critique of Kenya’s political and economic state, accusing the government of failing to address the needs of its citizens.
In a strongly worded statement, the organization highlighted the growing discontent among Kenyans over the rising cost of living, government corruption, and the erosion of democratic principles.
Cost of Living Crisis
The group recalled the nationwide protests in June 2024 against the Finance Bill, which proposed increased taxes on essential commodities such as maize flour, cooking oil, and menstrual products.
Although public outcry forced the withdrawal of the bill, Kongamano la Mapinduzi alleges the government has reintroduced elements of the rejected legislation, further burdening already struggling households.
“The government’s focus on wastage and corruption instead of investing in critical sectors like health and education has pushed the nation’s economic outlook to a bleak point,” the statement read.
The organization cited a controversial 10-billion-shilling expenditure to back Raila Odinga’s African Union Chair bid as an example of misplaced priorities.
Healthcare System Under Fire
The introduction of the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) has also drawn criticism, with the group arguing that the new scheme has worsened access to healthcare for millions.
The SHIF replaced the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF), but Kongamano la Mapinduzi contends that it has limited access to essential services like dialysis and surgery, benefiting only wealthy elites in the insurance sector.
Increased Insecurity and Human Rights Violations
The statement also highlighted a rise in abductions, enforced disappearances, and extrajudicial killings allegedly carried out by government-linked squads.
A grisly discovery in July 2024 of bodies dumped near Kware Police Station in Mukuru slums underscored these concerns.
The recently released #KwareTheAftermath Report by the Mukuru Community Justice Center documented these abuses, with the movement accusing the government and religious institutions of failing to support victims and their families.
Additionally, Kongamano la Mapinduzi reported a surge in femicide, with 97 documented cases in the past three months, further underscoring Kenya’s security challenges.
Criticism of Political Leadership
The movement accused the political elite of prioritizing their own interests over national development, engaging in ethnic divisions, and settling political scores rather than addressing the material conditions of ordinary Kenyans.
Kongamano la Mapinduzi also condemned the current parliament, calling it a “rubber stamp” for the executive and urging its dissolution for failing to meet constitutional gender representation requirements.
Call to Action
Kenyans were urged to unite and join progressive movements to hold the government accountable.
“This country can only change for the better if citizens come together to speak truth to power.” Kongamano la Mapinduzi concluded by reaffirming its commitment to the fight for social justice, encouraging Kenyans to take an active role in shaping the nation’s future.
