A Major Shift in Kenyan Politics: The Return of Fuel Subsidies

 Something very significant has just occurred in Kenyan politics, and it seems to be flying under the radar. The shift might appear small on the surface, but it is, in fact, monumental. What am I referring to? You’ve probably already guessed it – the government of President William Samuel Ruto has made a major, much-needed policy change: the reintroduction of fuel subsidies, a policy reminiscent of former President Uhuru Kenyatta’s administration.

Now, I’m not here to give a detailed analysis of the economy, but this shift is much more than just an economic decision; it represents a profound political change in Kenya. Let me illustrate why.

A Lesson in Human Nature and Political Shifts

Imagine your wife, who has never been very fashionable, suddenly walks in wearing a brand new, stylish outfit. She even gets a makeover that makes her look like the woman you married years ago. Should you be worried? Absolutely! This change is a huge red flag – it’s human nature. Similarly, if your neighbor, who has never been friendly, suddenly starts visiting you, chatting in a way they never did before, should you be concerned? Of course, you should. It’s human nature at play – things that seem too good to be true usually are.

Now, why is this reintroduction of fuel subsidies a political shift that should make us uneasy? Let me explain.

The President’s Change of Heart: A Disturbing Development

I’ve previously stated that President Ruto has always lacked a "reverse gear" – he’s never backed down from his policies. Yet, for the first time in his political career, the President has reversed his stance on fuel subsidies. This change is troubling and, frankly, disturbing.

I’ve been digging into this shift, consulting sources and reflecting on the implications. What I’ve found raises many questions. You may not agree with all my conclusions, but I think you’ll find the story compelling as it unfolds.

Professor Mutai Nguni’s Key Advice

A few days ago, Professor Mutai Nguni made an interesting statement. He advised President Ruto to reintroduce subsidies on the supply side while working on boosting production to bring down prices. This is a significant departure from Ruto’s earlier economic plan, which focused on increasing production to lower prices in the long run.

The problem with this approach is that it will take time, and in the meantime, people will continue to demand affordable goods. The solution to high prices isn't just subsidies – it’s ensuring that there is enough production to meet demand. However, without controlling greed in the market, the benefit of subsidies is undermined.

The Political Implications of This Policy Change

The reintroduction of fuel subsidies signals a major shift in how the government will operate. It suggests that President Ruto may finally be listening to his advisors, which could lead to more changes in government policy in the coming weeks and months.

However, I have some doubts about whether this shift will drastically alter the political landscape. Despite the potential economic relief, political opinions about this government may not change overnight. Many Kenyans have already formed their views, and the damage to the government’s legitimacy may be too deep to repair. Had this policy change come earlier, perhaps in January, the story might be different, but now it seems like too little, too late.

The Influence of Professor Mutenguni

Despite my skepticism, I must acknowledge that Professor Mutai Nguni is a brilliant mind. His advice may prove to be valuable, even though it might be a case of "too little, too late." Regardless, the government is pushing forward with this new direction, and only time will tell if it succeeds.

Conclusion: A New Chapter in Kenyan Politics?

In conclusion, the reintroduction of fuel subsidies marks a major political shift in Kenya. While some see it as a much-needed response to economic challenges, others view it as an attempt to salvage a government facing legitimacy issues. As the situation unfolds, we may see a very different political environment in Kenya in the coming months.

And on a personal note, I’d like to remind you about my latest book, Tyranny of False Narratives. It’s been well-received, and it offers a fresh perspective on how social media has influenced Kenyan politics. If you're interested, you can find more details on how to get a copy on the screen.