SUPKEM: Kenyans have lost hope in their leaders

By Robert Mutasi

The chairperson of the Supreme Council of Kenyan Muslims, Al Hajj Hassan Ole Naado, has cast a damning verdict on the state of political representation in Kenya by criticizing the political class for failing to serve the people.

Speaking on Thursday, December 5, 2024, Ole Naado said that Kenyans have lost confidence in their leaders.

He added that if the IEBC were functional, the number of Members of Parliament facing recalls would reach historic highs.

Ole Naado attributed this all-round disillusion to the perception that the political class no longer represents the interests of the electorate.

"The political elite have detached themselves from the realities and struggles of ordinary Kenyans, leaving a void in meaningful representation," he said.

His sentiments resonate with the struggles of many Kenyans, who have been struggling with economic challenges, including an increased cost of living, high unemployment rates, and corruption scandals.

According to a 2023 survey by Afrobarometer, more than 70% of Kenyans said they were dissatisfied with their political leaders, whom they accused of not being accountable and of failing to address pressing societal needs.

The IEBC, responsible for the management of electoral processes in Kenya, has also been accused of inefficiency and a lack of credibility.

As Kenyans struggle to have a better representation of their voices, calls for reforms within the commission have gained momentum.

Ole Naado's remarks come at a time when civil society groups and religious organizations are urging the political class to concentrate on governance and accountability.

SUPKEM, a leading voice among Kenya's Muslim community, has previously called for measures to curb corruption and strengthen institutions.

According to Ole Naado, the road to regain public confidence in political leadership must be paved with meaningful reforms, active citizen engagement, and a commitment to ethical governance.