Senator Richard Onyonka of Kisii has sharply criticized President William Ruto’s administration for its mishandling of the ongoing anti-government protests. Onyonka’s remarks come as the protests, driven by widespread discontent with the Kenya Kwanza administration, continue to escalate, despite the youth’s desire to see an end to demonstrations.
Onyonka, speaking today, voiced strong concerns about the current government’s legitimacy and competence. He argued that the Kenya Kwanza administration appears “destabilized,” and while the youth are keen to cease protests, they are confronted with mounting evidence of government inefficacy. Onyonka highlighted President Ruto’s decision to dissolve his Cabinet on July 11, a move initially seen as a positive step amid the protests. However, the senator criticized the reappointment of some ministers, which he believes exacerbates public dissatisfaction. He questioned the rationale behind reinstating individuals with questionable backgrounds and repeated issues, stating, “You are bringing back the same people, some of whom have dubious characteristics, and presenting them to the youth? Those kids know every one of us.”
Onyonka’s criticism extended to President Ruto’s recent statements, where the President vowed to end the protests and condemned what he described as “tyranny of anonymous, faceless, formless, sponsored people” threatening the country’s stability. Onyonka suggested that Ruto’s approach lacks empathy and fails to address the root causes of the protests. “All he should have said is ‘I have been listening to you and I am working hard to engage you on the challenges we are facing,’” Onyonka remarked, emphasizing a more constructive and conciliatory approach.
In addition to the criticisms of the handling of protests, Onyonka raised alarms about alleged government scandals. He accused the administration of handing over the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) to unnamed foreign entities. According to Onyonka, a contract has been signed to transfer the management of JKIA to a private company for 30 years, with the company retaining 18% equity after the contract expires. The senator questioned the rationale behind such an agreement and called for transparency in the deal, citing an unnamed French whistleblower.
Onyonka also highlighted potential procurement irregularities at the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA). He criticized the process for selecting a technology provider, suggesting that the government should adhere to legal and transparent procedures, including advertising and competitive bidding.
As the protests continue, Onyonka’s comments come ahead of a planned demonstration at JKIA dubbed ‘OccupyJKIA.’ Acting Police Inspector General Douglas Kanja has issued a statement reminding Kenyans of the legal boundaries governing access to protected areas. Kanja emphasized the police’s commitment to enforcing the law while respecting citizens’ right to protest.
Onyonka’s remarks underscore a growing frustration among some political figures regarding the administration’s response to public discontent and its handling of significant issues. With the protests showing no signs of abating, the government faces mounting pressure to address both the immediate concerns raised by demonstrators and the broader issues of governance and transparency.
