Treasury CS John Mbadi gestures during a press conference while criticizing opposition leaders’ economic policies, marking a shift in the ongoing political discourse. (Photo: Politics)
National Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi has challenged opposition leaders to present a clear economic agenda as Kenya heads towards the 2027 General Election.
Mbadi specifically criticised Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna while addressing residents during a development event in Suba South. He questioned whether opposition leaders have a concrete plan to transform Kenya’s economy beyond criticism of President William Ruto’s administration.
Mbadi Questions Opposition Agenda
Mbadi argued that seeking the presidency requires more than opposing the government. He said political leaders should explain how they would address Kenya’s economic challenges and deliver their proposed programmes.
“I have heard of opposition leaders who want the presidency, but they do not have an agenda for the economic transformation of this country,” Mbadi said.
The Treasury CS further argued that opposition leaders should be judged on their policy proposals and economic plans. His remarks come as several opposition figures position themselves ahead of the 2027 election.
Sifuna’s Political Plans
Mbadi also targeted Sifuna over his political ambitions and questioned the platform he would use to pursue the presidency.
However, Sifuna’s political plans have since advanced. The Linda Mwananchi Movement secured approval to reserve its preferred name after the Political Parties Disputes Tribunal directed the Registrar of Political Parties to reconsider the application.
Sifuna and his allies have continued organising around the political movement as opposition leaders negotiate their positions ahead of the 2027 contest. The Nairobi senator has also publicly discussed his reasons for seeking national leadership.
Mbadi Defends Ruto’s Economic Record
Mbadi used the event to defend the government’s economic record while criticising the opposition’s approach. He maintained that the Kenya Kwanza administration is implementing projects aimed at improving infrastructure and economic opportunities.
The Treasury CS also pointed to development projects in Nyanza as evidence of government investment in the region. He highlighted road projects and other infrastructure initiatives while urging residents to consider the government’s development record.
President Ruto has similarly used recent tours of Nyanza to highlight infrastructure projects. During a recent visit to Homa Bay, he said his administration was addressing what he described as historical development gaps in the region.
Political Contest Takes Shape
Mbadi’s remarks come as political competition intensifies ahead of the 2027 General Election. Several opposition leaders are building new political alliances, while parties and movements continue negotiating their positions.
Sifuna is among the politicians seeking to build a national political platform. His Linda Mwananchi initiative has already secured a legal breakthrough over its preferred name, although the movement still faces organisational and political questions ahead of the election.
The debate over economic policy is therefore likely to become a major feature of the 2027 political contest. For voters, competing leaders will ultimately have to explain how their proposed policies would address Kenya’s debt, jobs, public services and cost-of-living pressures.
Mbadi’s latest remarks add to the growing political exchange between government allies and opposition figures as the country moves closer to the next General Election.
