Survey: war on corruption key factor for 2017 elections

Tackling corruption, unemployment and high cost of living will determine the outcome of next year’s election, a new poll shows.

At the same time, the poll shows 53 per cent of Kenyans believe the country is heading in the wrong direction.

According to the Infotrak survey, whichever side - incumbent or opposition - that will be seen to be tackling the above concerns will likely form the next Government.

“Should the Government or the Opposition tackle these issues to the satisfaction of the citizens, then it goes without saying that it will endear itself to the people,” read part of the report.

Corruption stands out among the key concerns at 31 per cent followed by unemployment at 17 per cent and high cost of living at 12 per cent.

RETURN LOOT

According to the poll, over 55 per cent of the poll participants want corrupt individuals prosecuted.

About 13 per cent said looted cash should be returned. And 12 per cent said those found to be corrupt should never be allowed to hold any office.

“As expeditiously as the Government descends on someone who has stolen a bottle of lotion, Kenyans want the same to be applied on those who loot millions of public funds,” said Infotrak’s Angela Ambitho.

Only 44 per cent agreed that the country is moving in the right direction, with three percent being undecided.

Among the disgruntled, CORD supporters were the highest at 62 per cent with majority of Jubilee supporters (57 per cent) believing that the country is on the right path.

“More Jubilee supporters think the country is going in the right direction. It is imperative to note that more than a third of Jubilee supporters, 38 per cent, are not happy with the direction the country is taking,” read the report in part.