OPINION: Kenyans want a leadership shift, not political realignments

Kenya’s political landscape is like a revolving door—same leaders, different parties, and the same tired promises.

Every election cycle, Kenyans are fed the illusion that a shift in political alignment will bring economic relief, yet history tells a different story. The truth is, no amount of party realignment will save Kenya’s economy unless the country prioritizes true leadership over political theatrics.

For decades, the same politicians have held power in different capacities—MPs, Cabinet Secretaries, Governors, and even Presidents. Some of the leaders currently in the opposition were once in government but failed to implement policies that could have transformed the country.

Similarly, those currently in government once opposed the very ideas they now push. Their loyalty is not to the people but to personal interests and political survival.

We have seen leaders blame the previous regimes for economic woes, yet they were part of the system.

When in power, they failed to address corruption, high taxation, and poor governance—only to turn around and blame others when they find themselves on the outside.

The endless cycle of blame games and party shifting does nothing to solve the pressing issues facing Kenyans.

The Economy Needs Solutions, Not Excuses

Kenya’s economy is struggling due to a combination of poor policies, mismanagement, and corruption.

The cost of living continues to rise, businesses are shutting down, and unemployment is at an all-time high. Yet, instead of providing solutions, politicians engage in political battles, pushing narratives that do nothing to uplift the ordinary Kenyan.

The problem is not the party one belongs to but the failure of leadership. A true leader should be solution-oriented, willing to fight corruption, implement sound economic policies, and create an environment where businesses can thrive.

Shifting from one party to another does not automatically make a politician better—it just proves their lack of ideology and commitment to the people.

As the next election approaches, Kenyans must break free from the cycle of emotional voting based on tribal lines or party affiliations. Instead of following political slogans and empty promises, voters should demand:

1. Accountability – What has a leader done before? Have they delivered on past promises?

2. Integrity – Do they stand for ethical leadership, or are they involved in corruption?

3. Vision – Do they have a clear economic plan, or are they just blaming others?

4. Consistency – Have they remained true to their beliefs, or do they jump from one party to another for

political gain?

Kenya does not need new political alignments; it needs new thinking. If Kenyans continue voting for the

same people based on party waves instead of performance, the economy will remain in crisis.

It’s time for a leadership shift, not just a political one.