By Nyang’au Araka
Veteran musician, activist, and presidential hopeful Dr Reuben Kigame has delivered a blunt assessment of Kenya’s state of affairs, warning that the country is facing a deep moral and leadership crisis.
Speaking during an interview on Straight Talk, Dr Kigame did not hold back, declaring, “Kenya is not just in an economic crisis — we are in a moral crisis.”
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In the wide-ranging discussion, Dr Kigame criticized both political leaders and citizens, arguing that the country’s challenges stem from a breakdown in values and accountability.
According to him, leadership failures reflect a broader societal problem.
“We have normalized impunity. People do wrong and still get celebrated,” he said, adding that this culture has eroded public trust in institutions.
Dr Kigame also took issue with the way politics is conducted in the country, saying it has shifted away from service to self-interest. “Leadership in Kenya has become about accumulation, not service,” he said.
The outspoken activist challenged Kenyans to take greater responsibility in shaping the nation’s future, insisting that change cannot be left to politicians alone.
“The problem is not just the leaders we have, it is what we tolerate as citizens,” he stated.
During the interview, Kigame emphasized that meaningful transformation requires courage and honesty, especially from those in positions of influence.
He urged leaders to embrace integrity and prioritize the needs of ordinary citizens.
He also addressed the economic struggles facing many Kenyans, linking them to governance issues.
“When leadership fails, the economy suffers, and it is the ordinary mwananchi who pays the price,” he said.
Despite the grim assessment, Dr Kigame expressed hope that change is still possible if Kenyans are willing to demand better and hold leaders accountable.
He called for a shift in mindset, urging citizens to reject corruption and embrace ethical leadership.
“We must decide what kind of country we want and be ready to pay the price for it,” he said.
