EDITORIAL: Kenya's permanent campaign mode not good for development

With barely 18 months to the next general election, Kenya’s political temperature already resembles the final stretch of a campaign.

Rallies, alliances and accusations dominate the national conversation, creating the impression that elections are imminent. While political competition is a vital feature of democracy, its early intensification risks crowding out attention from urgent policy and governance challenges that directly affect citizens’ daily lives.

The transition under the competency-based curriculum remains unclear for many parents, teachers and learners, exposing gaps in planning and communication.

At the same time, the public health system continues to struggle with underfunding, staffing challenges and frequent disruptions, placing a heavy burden on ordinary Kenyans.

Questions surrounding the hurried sale or restructuring of state corporations have also raised legitimate concerns about transparency, value for money and long-term national interest. Overlaying all this is the broader issue of the cost of living and the general welfare of citizens.

Both government and opposition leaders share responsibility for this moment. A permanent campaign mode, where politics overshadows governance, undermines service delivery and public trust.

Elections should be moments of accountability, not distractions from it. As political actors make new promises, Kenyans have a duty to audit past commitments and assess tangible outcomes.

Ultimately, effective leadership is measured not by rhetoric, but by results that improve lives between elections.

“Emancipate yourselves from mental slavery.None but ourselves can free our minds.”

Bob Marley

The Jamaican singer, songwriter and guitarist was born on February 6, 1945