Ukambani MPs slam Kenya Kwanza Gov't over high cost of living

A section of legislators from the Ukambani region has criticized the Kenya Kwanza government, demanding immediate measures to alleviate the soaring cost of living that has inflicted hardships on Kenyan citizens.

Led by Kathiani MP Robert Mbui, Matungulu MP Stephen Mule, and Kitui Central MP Makali Mulu, the lawmakers asserted that corruption and exorbitant taxes on essential commodities, particularly fuel, have burdened Kenyans.

"The Kenya Kwanza team told us that a sitting government has a responsibility to mitigate the cost of living, and they told us from the Azimio faction to stay aside. We have stepped aside and kept silent, but the truth is, we are suffering. Taxes are increasing daily, fuel costs are high, and we cannot even afford to buy food," MP Mbui said.

The statements were delivered during the funeral of the late David Mwina Nzambia, the brother of Kilome MP Thaddeus Nzambia, who tragically lost his life to floods while en route to his home in Kilome Constituency, Makueni County.

MP Mule echoed the sentiments by Mbui, emphasizing the gravity of the situation.

"We want to all agree that the cost of living is high. Maybe the MPs on your side do not tell you the truth, but as Azimio, we tell you things are bad," Mule said.

MP Makali, on his part, called out the government for always blaming its predecessors when things went wrong in its governance.

 "Stop looking at the rear mirror. The government is in your hands now," he said.

Kibwezi West MP Mwangi Mutuse addressed concerns about government officials involved in corruption and called on the President to put his house in order.

"If a Cabinet member or a PS is not doing their job or is involved in corruption, let them be fired. You could be working for the country, Mr. President, but your team is failing you, and we know them, and we will name them when Parliament resumes in February," Mutuse declared.

The politicians also made calls for urgent interventions to assist those who have been affected by floods during the El Niño rains.