In a recent episode of Al Jazeera’s “Head to Head,” Kenya’s National Assembly Majority Leader, Kimani Ichung’wah, found himself under intense scrutiny.
The interview, conducted by the formidable Mehdi Hasan, delved into pressing issues plaguing President William Ruto’s administration, including unfulfilled promises, allegations of enforced disappearances, rampant corruption, and contentious policy decisions.
Dodging the 281 promises
When confronted about the government’s staggering 281 unfulfilled promises, Ichung’wah skillfully sidestepped direct accountability. Instead of providing concrete timelines or actionable plans, he offered broad assurances.
“The government is committed to delivering on its pledges. Progress may be gradual, but our dedication remains unwavering.” The response, however, lacked specificity, leaving many questioning the administration’s sincerity and capability.
The conversation took a heated turn when Hasan pressed Ichung’wah on reports of enforced disappearances. Human rights organizations, including the Kenya Human Rights Commission, have documented at least 63 civilian deaths, 65 forced disappearances, and over 1,400 unlawful detentions since Ruto assumed office in 2022. Ichung’wah dismissed these claims, asserting, “I do not believe there are enforced disappearances perpetuated by the state in Kenya.” This stark denial stands in contrast to mounting evidence and testimonies from victims’ families.
A particularly contentious moment arose when discussing Public Service Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi’s allegations that his son was abducted by the National Security Services during the 2024 protests.
“I tell you emphatically he has reasons to lie. He’s playing politics with a very unfortunate incident.” Such remarks not only dismiss the gravity of the accusations but also highlight internal rifts within the administration.
Corruption: Wealth amidst widespread poverty
Addressing concerns about the opulent lifestyles of Kenyan MPs, Ichung’wah was questioned about his own net worth. While Minority Leader Junet Mohamed previously jested that Ichung’wah was worth KSh5 billion (approximately $38 million USD), Ichung’wah clarified, “Not Ksh5 billion. Probably about close to Ksh1 billion.” He attributed his wealth to ventures outside of his political career.
“My wealth is largely not from my salary. I’ve had another life in other organizations other than in politics, done business over the years.” This admission, however, does little to assuage public perception of a disconnect between the political elite and the average citizen struggling with economic hardships.
Ichung’wah did acknowledge the insensitivity of flaunting wealth.
“It’s rather unfortunate. Nobody should do that.” He claimed to have cautioned his colleagues against such displays, adding, “Members of parliament in my party in the House who I see flaunting things that are not palatable with Kenyans, I tell them, ‘Hey bro, this is not good.'” Despite these assertions, the ostentatious behavior of some lawmakers continues to fuel public outrage.
The government’s introduction of the Finance Bill in 2024 sparked widespread protests, particularly among the youth. Thousands took to the streets, decrying the bill’s implications on an already burdened populace.
The administration’s response was marked by violent crackdowns, with security forces accused of using excessive force. Ichung’wah defended the government’s stance, suggesting that the protests were politically motivated and not a genuine reflection of public dissent. The perspective overlooks the legitimate grievances of citizens facing economic strain and perceiving the bill as exacerbating their plight.
Joining the discussion, a panel of experts provided additional insights. Human rights advocate Wanjiku Mwangi emphasized, “Dismissing documented cases of enforced disappearances undermines the lived experiences of victims’ families and erodes public trust.”
Mwangi critiqued the government’s economic policies, stating, “The administration’s approach lacks a clear strategy for sustainable growth, and the Finance Bill only adds to the public’s burden.”
Political analyst John Githongo highlighted internal divisions, noting, “The discord between key figures like Ichung’wah and Muturi reflects deeper issues within the ruling party that could impede effective governance.”
Amnesty international Kenya country representative Houngton Irungu asseted that as the Ruto administration continues to navigate these turbulent issues, the onus remains on them to bridge the gap.
“There’s a trust deficit in the current regime.There are many cases of abductions and torture yet no actions have been taken against the perpetrators. We only see delayed justice as politicians justifies the vile,”he explained.
If police and security agents are not the one abducting , torturing Kenyans who criticize poor governance then, who does.?”
