Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has condemned the government’s approach to engaging with Kenyans, accusing officials of resorting to threats instead of fostering constructive dialogue. Speaking on Radio Citizen, Sifuna singled out Mining Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho for his recent remarks, which have sparked widespread debate.
Joho had vowed to take action against Kenyans who criticized the government on social media. In response, Sifuna announced plans to summon Joho to Parliament, challenging his stance and defending Kenyans’ constitutional right to freedom of expression.
“This government doesn’t know how to communicate with Kenyans,” Sifuna said. “There’s no need for threats. In Joho’s case, we parliamentarians will summon him to explain why he is intimidating citizens for exercising their right to free speech.”
Sifuna emphasized that Joho’s role as a Cabinet Secretary required a different approach from his previous tenure as a politician. “He’s not a governor anymore; he’s a public servant. He should understand his new mandate,” Sifuna added, while noting that the matter would be revisited in February after Parliament’s recess.
Joho’s Controversial Remarks
Joho’s comments, made on December 3, 2024, where he vowed to “come for” Kenyans criticizing the government online, have been widely criticized. Many interpreted his remarks as a direct threat to free speech, leading to bipartisan discontent.
Sifuna urged Kenyans not to be intimidated. “I want to encourage Kenyans online not to feel threatened. You have the right to speak. It is your duty to hold the government accountable,” he said.
He also criticized the rhetoric of President William Ruto, who recently referred to critics of his policies as “pepo chafu” (evil spirits). Sifuna pointed out that such language only deepens divisions between the government and the people.
Calls for Transparency in Government Projects
Sifuna turned the conversation toward key government projects, including the Affordable Housing initiative, Taifa Care, and the controversial Adani-JKIA deal. He argued that public opposition to these projects stems not from their objectives but from a lack of transparency.
“Kenyans are not against upgrading the airport or housing initiatives; they simply want transparency and accountability,” Sifuna explained. He underscored the importance of credibility in public-private partnerships (PPP), adding that transparency would help build public trust.
The Adani-JKIA deal, in particular, has drawn criticism due to allegations of backroom negotiations. The law requires the government to announce all priority projects under the PPP model, but critics say this was not adhered to. “The president doesn’t understand why Kenyans are against Adani,” Sifuna said, highlighting the need for procedural fairness.
Proposed Amendments to PPP Laws
To address these concerns, Sifuna proposed amendments to the PPP laws. He suggested that all projects initiated under the Privately Initiated Proposal (PiP) framework must be made public within seven days of submission.
“This will ensure transparency from the outset,” Sifuna said. He also proposed introducing a Swiss challenge system, allowing competitors to submit bids on PiP projects. “This way, the government can choose the best offer, ensuring fairness and value for taxpayers.”
Sifuna emphasized the importance of whistleblowers in safeguarding public interests, referencing recent concerns raised by Nelson Amenya about the potential sale of JKIA. “We don’t want whistleblowers to be the only source of information for such critical matters,” he said.
Balancing Accountability and Development
Sifuna concluded by urging the government to rethink its communication strategies and engage in meaningful conversations with the public. “We should be discussing how to move the country forward, not intimidating teenagers or critics online,” he said.
By championing transparency and fostering dialogue, the Senator hopes to bridge the growing divide between Kenyans and their leaders, ensuring that development projects benefit the public and respect constitutional freedoms.
