Nyeri Archbishop Anthony Muheria has criticized the Kenya Kwanza government for prioritizing aggressive publicity campaigns over the actual implementation of its projects. Speaking at Consolata Mathari Hospital on Friday, Muheria lamented that the government appeared more focused on public relations stunts and making new promises rather than delivering on existing commitments.
“There needs to be less rhetoric. Stop advertising what you plan to do act! The government is not an advertising agency; it is an agency that implements actions, and that’s what we want to see,” Muheria asserted.
The archbishop warned that excessive resources were being spent on discussing projects rather than executing them. He urged the administration to shift its focus to tangible progress rather than continuous self-promotion. His remarks reflect growing concerns among Kenyans about the government’s perceived failure to fulfill many of its pledges.
Muheria also expressed concern about the state of healthcare, particularly the Social Health Authority (SHA) scheme. He pointed out that payment delays from the defunct National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) and the SHA have left hospitals in crisis. According to him, Consolata Mathari Hospital is owed over Ksh 250 million by the government, a debt that has remained unpaid for the last four years. He pleaded for immediate action to resolve the financial strain on healthcare institutions.
However, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi defended the government’s communication strategy, arguing that informing the public is a constitutional duty. Speaking at the burial of Senate Speaker Amason Kingi’s father in Kilifi County, Mudavadi said public participation is a fundamental government responsibility.
“The government’s role includes public participation. Some may not want us to engage, but that is not an option. According to the Constitution, we are required to involve the public and inform them about what is being done,” Mudavadi stated.
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki and National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula also pushed back against Muheria’s remarks. Kindiki emphasized that the government has a duty to inform citizens about its development programs and their implementation.
Wetang’ula, on the other hand, urged Muheria to “stick to his lane” and use unifying language. He argued that labeling the government as an advertising agency suggested a misunderstanding of constitutional obligations.
The debate highlights growing tensions between the clergy and the government over governance priorities. As Kenyans continue to demand accountability, the balance between communication and tangible development remains a key concern.
