Former Nairobi Governor Evans Kidero has sharply criticized Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi, urging him to adopt a more humble, empathetic, and people-centered approach in handling public participation forums on key national economic decisions.
In a strongly worded statement, Kidero said he “hopes and trusts that CS John Mbadi will approach the ongoing public participation engagements with greater sensitivity, attentiveness, and statesmanship,” stressing that government must not lose touch with ordinary citizens.
“The concerns raised by ordinary Kenyans deserve to be received and analysed with empathy, emotional intelligence, and a sincere understanding of the harsh socio-economic realities facing millions of Kenyans today,” Kidero stated.
He warned that recent public reactions to government communication during economic pressure points had exposed a gap between citizens and leadership, particularly citing moments such as the fuel price concerns and transport disruptions.
“The dismissive responses and perceived arrogance witnessed during the recent fuel price crisis and Matatu strike only deepened public frustration at a moment when reassurance, humility, and responsive leadership were urgently needed,” he said.
Kidero emphasized that leadership in times of economic difficulty must go beyond technical explanations and policy announcements, arguing that citizens need emotional reassurance as much as economic solutions.
“In times of economic hardship, leadership must go beyond policy pronouncements; it must inspire confidence, provide comfort, and restore hope to the people,” he added.
He further called for a shift in governance culture, urging leaders to embrace humility and meaningful engagement with citizens across all levels of decision-making.
“Kenyans expect prudent stewardship, humility in governance, and meaningful engagement from those entrusted with public office,” Kidero said, adding that “the prevailing economic challenges demand sobriety, thoughtful deliberation, compassionate communication, and policy decisions grounded in the lived experiences of wananchi.”
Despite his criticism, Kidero maintained that Kenya still has the potential to transform into a disciplined and globally competitive economy if leadership embraces accountability and citizen-centered governance.
“If these principles are embraced with sincerity and consistency, Kenya will not merely withstand the current difficulties, but will rise stronger, more resilient, and more prosperous,” he noted.
He concluded by framing Kenya’s long-term ambition within a global development benchmark, referencing the widely discussed comparison to Singapore.
“The journey towards transforming Kenya into a disciplined, efficient, and globally competitive economy akin to Singapore is inevitable, but it can only be achieved through visionary leadership, accountable governance, and a people centered approach to national development,” Kidero said.
Reinforcing his final message, he reiterated: “The journey to Singapore is inevitable.”
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