In recent months, Kenya has been facing a series of opposition protests sparked by the escalating cost of living and tax hikes. Ordinary Kenyans, who were once hopeful about positive changes, now feel betrayed by the government they voted for in the last presidential election. William Ruto, who portrayed himself as the candidate of the “hustler nation,” promised to address the struggles faced by ordinary people trying to make ends meet. However, his administration’s policies have resulted in soaring prices and increased financial burdens, leading to widespread discontent.
The Broken Promises
James Wainaina, a taxi driver in Nairobi who voted for Ruto, now supports the protests. He laments that prices have skyrocketed, and the tax rises have made it even harder for the poorest Kenyans to survive. Businesses are struggling, and even hardworking individuals like Wainaina are going home with meager earnings. Many feel they were lied to and that the government has not made it easy for small businesses and ordinary citizens.
Growing Discontent
The latest survey by a local polling firm, Tifa, reveals that 56% of Kenyans believe the country is heading in the wrong direction, indicating a considerable level of unhappiness with the current state of affairs. The discontent has found expression through protests called by the opposition coalition, Azimio, led by Raila Odinga, who was defeated by Ruto in the last election.
Rising Cost of Living
Government data shows that key food products have seen substantial price increases in the past 12 months. Staples like maize, grain, flour, rice, potatoes, and sugar have become more expensive, impacting the daily lives of ordinary Kenyans. Despite the financial strain on citizens, the government introduced new taxes, including a doubled value-added tax on fuel products and a 1.5% housing levy on employees’ basic pay.
A Clash of Views
While some citizens, like accountant Jane Njeri, understand the need for higher taxes to address the country’s debts and economic challenges, others like Charles Kaindo, a hawker, believe that the government has broken its promises. The government justifies the tax increases as necessary short-term sacrifices for the country’s future, but critics argue for a focus on spurring private-sector growth and reducing wasteful spending.
The Path Forward
Economic analysts weigh in on the situation, with some asserting that the president’s intentions may be noble, but the methods are misguided. They suggest cutting waste before burdening ordinary Kenyans with more taxes. Others advocate for lower interest rates, reduced taxation, and deregulation to foster private-sector growth and job creation, allowing the free market to work.
Kenya’s “Hustler Nation” protests reflect the frustration and struggle of ordinary people against rising costs and economic hardships. The government’s policies have ignited widespread discontent, leading to demonstrations across the country. The clash between promises made during the election campaign and the reality of increased taxes has left many Kenyans disillusioned and seeking economic justice. As the nation stands at a crossroads, finding a balance between fiscal responsibility and supporting the well-being of citizens remains the critical challenge for the government.