National Assembly Minority Leader Junet Mohamed has defended the state of the economy, citing findings from the newly released Economic Survey 2026 as proof that Kenya is on a firm recovery path.
According to Junet, the report paints a positive picture contrary to criticism from sections of the media and political class.
"The government released the Economic Survey 2026, and for those who want to read keenly, leave alone what these papers are writing, the survey has confirmed that the foundation of our economy is very strong,” Junet said.
Speaking in Bomet, the Suna East MP noted that the report ranks Kenya as the third-largest economy in Sub-Saharan Africa, behind Nigeria and South Africa.
This, he termed, as a milestone that should instill national confidence.
“It has also proved that Kenya is the third largest economy in Sub-Saharan Africa, after Nigeria and South Africa. Kenya is number three in the whole of Sub-Saharan Africa. Kenya is doing very well, and the economic survey has brought out many things that Kenyans need to take very seriously,” he added.
Drawing a light comparison, Junet likened the ranking to qualification for elite global competition.
"You qualify for UEFA Champions League… Kenya is performing at that level economically,” he said.
The legislator highlighted key indicators from the survey, including infrastructure expansion and agricultural output.
“The economic survey has said that there are 25,000 kilometres of roads being tarmacked in our country. Production of maize has moved to almost 50 million bags. One million jobs were created last financial year,” he stated.
Junet also revisited the country’s debt history, arguing that the current administration inherited a difficult economic situation and is steadily reversing it.
“People think that this economy was in a good place when this government took over. Those of us who have been in Parliament know where we were, this economy was under serious debt distress,” he said.
He compared past administrations, noting: “The government of President Moi left no debt because nobody was giving him debt. The government of President Kibaki left about Sh1.8 trillion. The last government left about Sh10 trillion to the country.”
According to Junet, turning around the economy required decisive leadership.
“Removing the country from that cesspit was not an easy task. Only a committed leader can do that job. We must commend you, Your Excellency, for moving Kenyans to where they are today,” he said, addressing President Ruto.
He urged patience as the government continues implementing its economic agenda.
"I can see the media comparing your term with previous presidents. But we still have many years to go. Take your time and help this country,” Junet said.
Emphasising inclusivity, the Minority Leader said economic growth benefits all citizens regardless of political or ethnic affiliation.
“When the economy grows, it grows for everyone. It doesn’t grow for one community or one party, it grows for all Kenyans,” he added.
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