The Institute of Social Accountability (TISA) and Okoa Uchumi, held a crucial Debt and Anti-Corruption Citizen Assembly in Nairobi, a event that brought together civil society organizations, activists, and concerned citizens to discuss Kenya’s rising public debt, the need for fiscal transparency, and the urgent fight against corruption.
The assembly served as a platform for various stakeholders to voice their concerns over the government’s growing debt burden, which has sparked widespread anxiety over its long-term impact on the economy and the livelihood of ordinary Kenyans.
Participants stressed the need for a more accountable and transparent fiscal management system, calling on the government to take decisive action against corruption and implement stronger measures to curb wastage of public resources.
In his keynote address, LSK president Faith Odhiambo, emphasized the urgent need for transparency and accountability in the management of Kenya’s public finances. She highlighted the alarming rise in the country’s debt burden, which has significantly strained the economy and placed undue pressure on taxpayers.
Odhiambo called on the government to adopt more stringent measures in curbing corruption, which she described as the “biggest impediment to Kenya’s development.”
“Corruption is not just a legal issue; it is a societal menace that undermines the very fabric of our nation,we must all come together citizens, government, and civil society to demand accountability and ensure that our resources are used for the benefit of all Kenyans.” she stated.
Odhiambo also stressed the importance of citizen participation in holding public officials accountable.
She urged Kenyans to take an active role in monitoring the use of public funds and to demand transparency in government spending.
The assembly featured various panel discussions, with experts analyzing the current state of Kenya’s public finances and offering solutions to prevent the country from plunging deeper into debt.
Key topics included the impact of debt on social services, the role of civil society in fiscal oversight, and strategies to enhance the government’s debt management practices.
One of the major highlights of the event was the presentation of a Citizens’ Charter on Debt and Anti-Corruption, which outlines specific demands for the government to ensure responsible borrowing and spending.
The charter calls for stringent anti-corruption measures, greater public participation in budgeting processes, and increased transparency in the management of public resources.
The Okoa Uchumi, Debt, and Anti-Corruption Citizen Assembly concluded with a strong call to action, urging Kenyans to remain vigilant and actively participate in safeguarding the country’s economic future.
The participants vowed to continue pushing for reforms and to hold the government accountable for its fiscal decisions.
As Kenya continues to grapple with its debt challenges, today’s assembly underscored the importance of citizen engagement in the fight for a more transparent, accountable, and corruption free society.
