The Shift in Kenya's National Conversation: Ruto, Uhuru, and the Tax Debate

Kenyan media is now dominated by the ongoing drama between President Ruto and former President Uhuru Kenyatta, with some outlets reminding us of their political rift that began in 2018. Many assumed that once Uhuru left office, his involvement in politics would end, but the situation has taken an unexpected turn. Now, the narrative centers around accusations of tax exemptions for the Kenyatta family, with President Ruto pushing the message that everyone must pay taxes. However, this issue raises more questions than answers, especially given the constitutionally protected right to protest.

The Kenya Kwanza government seems to be struggling with how to handle the situation, unable to fully grasp the political implications. The reality is that the right to protest is enshrined in the constitution, a safeguard against potential abuse by those in power. The debate is being framed as an issue of taxes, but this is merely a distraction from the broader issue of political accountability. The government seems to be good at talking, but the implementation of its promises remains questionable.

Further complicating matters, Nandi Senator Cherargei recently suggested that since Uhuru Kenyatta is "back in politics," his retirement perks, including government vehicles and office space, should be withdrawn. But who exactly brought the former president back into politics? If this is a tax issue, there’s no need for political drama; it's a matter of the law, which everyone should follow. The current administration is clearly more adept at generating noise than delivering results, and their leadership team raises concerns about their ability to truly bring about change.

But beyond the talk about Uhuru Kenyatta and his family, there’s something much deeper at play here. Let me explain with an analogy. Imagine your wife starts hearing rumors about you spending time with people who don’t fit her expectations. To shift the conversation away from her suspicions, you provoke her emotions by bringing up an issue she’s sensitive about, like her sister. Suddenly, the conversation shifts, and you’re no longer on the defensive. This is exactly what's happening in Kenya’s political landscape: a deliberate shift in focus to distract from more pressing issues, such as electoral justice.

Recently, Raila Odinga raised a crucial point about the 2022 elections, questioning why a president was sworn in despite only having the support of three out of seven election commissioners. This is a matter that should dominate our national conversation, but instead, we’re now discussing taxes and the Kenyatta family. Is this really the priority issue for Kenyans right now? Shouldn't the focus be on achieving electoral justice and holding those in power accountable for past wrongs? Without addressing these fundamental issues, any discussions about government vehicles or the Kenyatta family's wealth are mere distractions.

As we continue to debate these side issues, it's important to remember that those in power understand how to manipulate the narrative. We’ve been cleverly drawn into a conversation that ultimately serves their interests. Should we really be consumed with discussions about former president Uhuru Kenyatta’s retirement perks? Shouldn't we instead be focused on making real changes, ensuring that those we elect into office will serve the people and not their own selfish interests?

In conclusion, it’s time for Kenyans to wake up and refocus on the real issues. Let’s get serious about the future of our country.