The recent Nane nane march on the 8TH of August, alongside protests previously witnessed have only intensified the citizens’ collective reflection on broader societal issues plaguing Kenya’s poor governance structure. Rampant corruption levels and the general lack of transparency and accountability in the current administration is further compounding an already dire situation. The amplified voices are not merely cries of discontent but crystallized narrowly to say, “Look, we recognize the government’s effort towards economic growth, but such growth should transcend from improvements in private sector development, health or education. It must also be a transformative and stabilizing process, even if it disrupts the status quo” – a process long overdue but truly essential for progress.
It is in the best interest of the citizenry to witness robust and professional public engagement with government institutions, coupled with effective checks and balances that will ensure accountability. These mechanisms are essential for assessing the effectiveness of structures and fostering dialogues aimed at addressing areas of improvement for economic betterment. However, emphasis should not sorely be on governmental oversight. The integrity of the entire citizenry as a whole must also be evaluated. Corruption itself is a symptom of a deeper malaise; the lack of integrity that permeates both the governed and the governing. The stealthy and clandestine implementation of bills and acts that ultimately hinder economic empowerment and needless to say, the ruthless actions of a police force responsible for numerous extrajudicial killings, are outright indicators of a society devoid of rightful values. Often overlooked, the fight against societal vices can only be truly effective if our value system as a whole is rigorously examined and reformed. Surely, will merit, accountability and integrity continue to remain mere hypotheses within Kenya’s governance structure?
With the appointment of 19 cabinet secretaries, and as we closely monitor the potential amendments of bills and the implications of further protests, it is imperative that Kenyans collectively demand and foster a governance structure rooted in accountability and integrity. The beginning of this is a renewed commitment to civic engagement, where citizens actively participate in holding the leadership accountable and advocating for reforms that prioritize the common good over personal gain. It is quite commendable that we have already witnessed this in instances such as the review of the road maintenance levy. The citizenry should also advocate for a merit-based decision-making process, where decisions at all levels of governance are based primarily on competence and fairness, not on tribal affiliations or from corrupt practices. Also, we must ensure that public bodies that possess the power to enforce these principles are held accountable, guaranteeing that those with the mandate remain answerable to the people they serve. Finally, our value system must be revitalized from the education level going onward, with emphasis on ethical leadership and civic responsibility from a young age. Only through concerted holistic efforts can we begin to dismantle our corruption entrenched governance systems and build a future where this truly reflects the will and welfare of the people, for generations to come.
