Misplaced blame: DP Gachagua's criticism of NIS director Noordin Haji

In recent political discourse, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua's comments regarding NIS Director Noordin Haji have sparked significant controversy and debate. Gachagua's assertion that Haji is incompetent and should be held responsible for failing to inform President William Ruto about the unpopularity of the 2024/2025 Finance Bill among the citizens is not only misguided but also overlooks the broader responsibilities and dynamics within the government.

To begin with, the National Intelligence Service (NIS) and its director have a mandate that extends beyond merely gauging public opinion on specific legislative measures. The primary role of the NIS is to ensure national security by providing intelligence on threats both internal and external.

While understanding public sentiment is undoubtedly a component of their intelligence gathering, it is not their primary function to advise on the popularity of fiscal policies. Blaming Haji for not predicting the public's reaction to a finance bill diverts attention from the more pertinent issue of governmental accountability and responsiveness.

Gachagua was, however, right on one point: the unpopularity of the 2024/2025 Finance Bill is a symptom of a deeper disconnect between the government and the electorate. The bill's content and its reception reflect the broader economic realities and public sentiments.

Suppose the finance bill has faced significant backlash. In that case, it is a clear indication that the legislative process did not sufficiently incorporate public consultation or adequately address the economic hardships faced by ordinary Kenyans. The elected representatives, including the President and his Deputy, are responsible for ensuring that policies resonate with the needs and aspirations of the populace.

Moreover, Gachagua's attempt to single out Haji shifts focus away from the collective responsibility of the Cabinet and the broader political leadership. Effective governance relies on a cohesive strategy where intelligence inputs are considered alongside economic data, public consultations, and expert analysis.

The Finance Bill, being a crucial element of economic policy, should have undergone rigorous scrutiny and debate within the government before being presented to the public. This process involves multiple stakeholders, and attributing the bill's failure to one individual oversimplifies the complexities of policy formulation and implementation.

Furthermore, the Deputy President's remarks can have far-reaching implications on the morale and functioning of the NIS. Publicly undermining the competence of the intelligence chief could erode trust and confidence within the service, potentially hampering its effectiveness.

The political leadership must maintain a constructive relationship with intelligence agencies, ensuring that criticisms and feedback are channelled through appropriate and respectful avenues.

In addressing the Finance Bill's unpopularity, a more constructive approach would involve a thorough review of the bill, incorporating feedback from various sectors, and engaging in open dialogue with the public.

The government must demonstrate a willingness to listen and adapt policies to reflect the realities its citizens face. This approach not only fosters trust but also enhances the legitimacy and acceptance of government initiatives.

 Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua's statement blaming NIS Director Noordin Haji for the unpopularity of the 2024/2025 Finance Bill is misplaced. The responsibility for ensuring that government policies align with public sentiment rests with the entire political leadership, not just the intelligence service. The government must adopt a more holistic and inclusive approach to policy-making, one that prioritizes the voices and needs of the Kenyan people.