Ruto, Gachagua must be held accountable if bi-partisan talks collapse- Timothy Bosire

Seven years ago, retired President Uhuru Kenyatta walked into the National Assembly to make his State of the Nation address after winning his second presidential term.

Minutes into the speech, several opposition MPs rose from their seats, waving placards, blowing whistles and jeering the president ostensibly to protest what they then called government excesses and rhetoric on crucial national issues.

Among the MPs was Timothy Bosire, the now former MP Kitutu Masaba and current ODM party National Treasurer.

A close ally to opposition leader Raila Odinga, Bosire has remained an opposition fire-brand politician who joined Parliament through the 2013 General Election on an ODM ticket.

Bosire lost his parliamentary seat to Shadrack Mose in 2017 and made his debut in the governor race in 2022, a position that went to incumbent Governor Amos Nyaribo.

However, the former legislator seems to have taken his opposition work outside Parliament; this time to his social media space. Never mincing his words as he tackles political, governance, economic and social issues affecting the country.

On the economy, Bosire says living conditions in Kenya today have become difficult for all categories of citizens. “Not likely to improve soon. The ruling lot just don’t get it right on anything they do or say. Not believable anymore. They don’t inspire... citizens losing hope every day.”

He says that the Controller of Budget laments that discipline is lacking in the National Treasury and government in appropriation of public resources.

“Deceitful politics, living in denial, struggling to rise to occasion; clearly explains the harsh moments Kenyans are going through. The arrogant show by some leaders will not mitigate. It’s going to be painful as already admitted.”

Bosire believes that some leaders are misleading Kenyans without blinking. “Elsewhere, this could be enough for one to resign. Fuel prices spiralling high, hurting the economy; raising poverty levels, sinking hustlers’ hopes.”

Azimio demonstrations, he says, were a clear way for citizens to articulately present their case on how they have been abused, rooted and taken for granted over the years.

Pointing out the country’s financial strain, he says, common sense would dictate that the little available be used wisely for the greater good of country and citizenry.

The ODM National Treasurer says workers have been left alone. “Once upon a time, there were union bosses who could fight for the rights and welfare of workers. In Kenya; currently with changed roles, we have a political court jester. Ball in the hands of the unionists in Kenya.”

Should the bipartisan talks fail, he says President William Ruto should blame his deputy Rigathi Gachagua and National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah.

“They have been bad-mouthing the process and even casting doubts on issues raised. Their conduct is raising questions on whether Kenya Kwanza is serious in governance. Maybe too much excitement.”

He sees no light at the end of the tunnel for the talks. “UDA by their conduct, behaviour and pronouncements by top leadership already removed the goodwill, trust and regard for the Talks. No sign of serious leadership emerging. Rethinking of the whole process is necessary.”

He adds: “Emerging is the capture and control of President Ruto by this clique of youthful politicians likely pursuing selfish Interests. Advice; Country first, everything else second.”

“High measures of honesty and undiluted integrity are values he believes to be necessary as leaders seek to serve the public in whichever capacity. The public demands absolute accountability including punishing anyone going to the contrary. Serve with honesty.”

A career economist and a graduate of The University of Nairobi, Bosire says meritocracy as opposed to cronyism and tribalism in national appointments will definitely take this country to the next level and faster in achieving goals as a country.

“What you plant you harvest. A nation can never be led on lies nor threats. Citizens are informed fully of their rights. Kenya is a constitutional democracy, globally recognised. Firm, principled and visionary leaders are tested and ascertained during difficult scary times.”

The country’s leadership, he admits, must have a plan or a manifesto.

“Bottom up must be made clear what it means. I hope to see a new Kenya coming into being where tribalism will count less. How it shall be joyful, Kenya shall be great. Sixty years on, still yearning. It shall pass and all Kenyans will enjoy living in their country of great wealth,” he said.