In a political terrain that is changing very fast, it seems some leaders are stuck in outdated playbooks. This week, Senator Samson Cherargei has come under fire following comments targeting former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i, a move that has sparked criticism from political observers and the general public.
According to political commentator and strategist Pauline Njoroge, Senator Cherargei’s effort to link Matiang’i to alleged economic malpractice during the Uhuru Kenyatta presidency time is not only ill-advised, but also out of touch with the current political situation.
“You cannot use an old man to navigate new territories,” she stated, pointing to the dwindling success of the anti-Uhuru and anti-Raila narratives that once exited opposition supporters during 2022 presidential general electioneering period.
Njoroge asserts that while it was once popular to claim that Uhuru’s administration stole public funds and plundered the economy, such claims have lost their relevance.
“There was even a time when someone claimed billions were flown out of the Treasury in a helicopter—and people believed it. But fast forward three years, and there’s been no investigation, no prosecution, no recovery. Nothing,” she highlighted.
ALSO READ:
–Peter Kaluma Calls Out Matiang’i Over Secretive Return to Kenya and Past Misdeeds
Coming up with these allegations now, in an attempt to discredit Matiang’i presidential candidature appears more like a political witch hunt than a real genuine concern.
Njoroge warns that this tactic may backfire on the current administration’s face, potentially generating public sympathy for Matiang’i and giving rise to a strong political movement in favor of his candidacy thus giving him an upper hand in the upcoming general election if he will be on the ballot.
She insisted that when a government is seeking to be re-elected, it should focus on its track record performance and not recycled narratives.
“You win re-election by showing your achievements and proving why you deserve a fresh mandate,” she noted.
She also emphasized that the government should compare it’s track record with it’s opponent’s, and convince the public that they’re still the best option but not by reusing old slogans and fear-mongering.
As the political season gains momentum, Kenyans are signaling a desire for substance over stories and unnecessary drama. And if the reaction to Cherargei’s comments is any indication, political leaders who fail to adapt to this new political reality may find themselves losing favor with the electorate this finding themselves on the losing election.
What is your opinion on Pauline Njoroge’take on Senator Cheralge’s statement?
Kindly leave us a comment below.
