Kenya’s path forward: Leadership and accountability

Politicians think of the next election; true leaders think of the next generation.” – Dr. Myles Munroe.

A decade ago, a Kenya Airways flight that was destined for Johannesburg had to turn back due to poor visibility and bad weather, returning to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. This incident serves as a metaphor for Kenya’s current political climate. President William Ruto, the pilot of the nation, recently reversed course on a controversial tax law amidst political turbulence.

Luxury cars, private helicopters, mounds of cash. The lavish lifestyles of Kenya’s lawmakers, splashed across TikTok and X, added fuel to the anger simmering among a young, plugged-in population over proposed tax hikes. Weeks-long protests against these tax measures increasingly drew attention to the large salaries, perks, and ostentation of members of parliament (MPs) in a country where three-quarters of the population is young, and well-paid work is scarce. Fury boiled over on June 25, when protesters stormed parliament, setting it ablaze and pelting fleeing politicians’ vehicles with stones. Since then, private residences and businesses of several MPs, mainly those associated with the ruling coalition, have been attacked.

Now, TikTok and X are being wielded as tools of protest. Politicians’ videos edited and reposted with negative comments. The platforms are awash with allegations of mismanaged funds and discussions on next steps for the as-yet largely leaderless youth movement. Activists are sharing advice on how to use recall powers to topple representatives and have even built an AI-powered chatbot that spits out media reports of corruption allegations when a politician’s name is entered.

Leadership lesson 1 

Authenticity and transparency matter

In April and May, during the build-up to the protests, ruling party MP Zaheer Jhanda posted videos of himself on TikTok admiring his gleaming Range Rover, a Mercedes G Wagon, and a Lexus, triggering angry online commentary. 

“Why would you show us your lavish lifestyle and still not do your job as a leader?” asked artist and activist Rachel Stephanie Akinyi. Authenticity and transparency are crucial in leadership. Leaders must not only be genuine but also openly share their intentions and actions with their followers.

Leadership lesson 2 

Listening to constituents

In a sign of the pressure the protests are exerting on President William Ruto, he announced on Thursday that after listening to Kenyans and reflecting, he had dismissed his entire cabinet, apart from the foreign minister, aiming to set up a new “broad-based government.” Ruto’s decision underscores the importance of listening to the people you serve and being willing to make difficult changes in response to their concerns.

Leadership lesson 3 

Demonstrating austerity

Last week, Ruto, 57, said some officials displayed “obnoxious opulence.” He announced austerity measures including cuts to his own office’s budget and ordered a review of pay rises MPs and other officials had been due to receive in July. This move highlights the importance of leading by example and demonstrating a commitment to austerity, especially during times of economic hardship.

Leadership lesson 4 

Accountability and responsiveness

Didmus Barasa, the ruling party MP for Kimilili in Western Kenya, told Reuters the protesters had valid concerns about what he called the “insensitivities” of the government’s handling of economic development. He did not give further details. Barasa denied MPs were overpaid. His personal wealth, including a private helicopter, was a reward for legitimate business activities, he said. Barasa, a former soldier not widely known as a businessman, claimed ownership of a hospital in Turkey. “Yes, I have a helicopter. I have a helicopter that I purchased,” he said. “I am an inspiration to many young people in this country.” Accountability and responsiveness are critical in leadership, ensuring that actions and decisions can be justified and that leaders are answerable to the people they serve.

Leadership lesson 5 

Engaging and empowering youth

Caroline Gaita, executive director of Mzalendo, an organisation that monitors parliament, said young Kenyans, previously disinterested in politics, are re-engaging, aware of the impact legislation has on their daily lives and demanding lawmakers listen to them. Engaging and empowering youth is essential for any nation’s progress. Leaders must create opportunities for young people to participate in governance and in the policy-making processes.

Leadership lesson 6 

Embracing change and innovation

Calling the protests an “awakening of Gen Z,” Tom Mboya, an expert on politics and corruption in Kenya, said there was a perception that politicians were rarely, if ever, held to account since Ruto took office in 2022. “They have become bolder in their flashy and opulent lifestyles at a time when Kenyans are being taxed to their limit,” Mboya said of officials and MPs, some of whom have been filmed handing out wads of cash to people in their constituencies. Embracing change and innovation is crucial for leadership. Leaders must adapt to new circumstances and leverage technology and innovative solutions to address challenges and meet the needs of their constituents.

In 2023, Kenya ranked 126 out of 180 countries in the world by Transparency International’s Corruption Perception Index, down three places from 2022.

Former Makueni Governor Kivutha Kibwana has expressed optimism for the future of Kenya after President William Ruto sacked the entire cabinet following pressure from Gen Z. In a statement on his X account, Kibwana praised the decision, reflecting the growing clamour for accountability and good governance. “New Kenya, nothing less! A land where the citizens & the constitution are sovereign under God. Gen Zs, you sting like Bees. You worthy heirs of Dedan Kimathi whom you will bury in dignity,” noted Kibwana.

In this period of political turbulence, Kenya’s motto, Harambee – “Let us all pull together” – resonates more than ever. The nation stands at a crossroads, where the collective effort of its people, especially the younger generation, will determine its trajectory.

 Actionable advice and call to action

1.Stay informed and engaged: Keep abreast of political developments and participate actively in dialogues and forums. An informed populace can hold leaders accountable and push for necessary changes.

2. Leverage social media wisely: Use platforms like TikTok, X, and others to voice concerns, share information, and organise peaceful protests. Social media can amplify voices and bring attention to critical issues.

3. Promote transparency and accountability: Demand transparency from leaders and institutions. Support initiatives and organisations that monitor government actions and promote accountability.

4. Encourage youth participation: Mentor and encourage young people to get involved in politics and governance. Their fresh perspectives and energy are crucial for driving change.

5. Support economic reforms: Advocate for and support economic reforms that aim to reduce inequality and create opportunities for all Kenyans. Economic liberation is key to sustainable development.

6. Foster a spirit of unity: Embrace the spirit of Harambee in all actions. Unity and collective effort are vital for overcoming challenges and building a prosperous nation.

Kenya’s future depends on the active participation and collaboration of its citizens. Let us all pull together to ensure a transparent, accountable, and economically vibrant nation for generations to come.

business a.m. commits to publishing a diversity of views, opinions and comments. It, therefore, welcomes your reaction to this and any of our articles via email: comment@businessamlive.com