Nairobi Senator and Linda Mwananchi presidential aspirant Edwin Sifuna has outlined his plan to reduce taxation and wastage if elected President. According to Sifuna, his team of experts has suggested that it is possible to have a balanced budget in 15 months by making specific changes. He proposes cutting between Ksh.500 billion and Ksh.1.8 trillion in wastage from the budget. Sifuna also suggests removing VAT on fuel, the housing levy, and reducing VAT on electricity.
Sifuna's proposals focus on addressing various sectors, including education. He plans to establish a national data bank for schools in Kenya, arguing that the sector has been vulnerable to misuse of public resources due to lack of data. The senator stated that the government currently does not have data on the number of students, schools, or other essential information. This data bank aims to provide transparency and accountability in the education sector.
In the health sector, Sifuna addressed the issue of delayed payments to hospitals for services rendered. He promised that if elected, his administration would ensure hospitals are paid within 30 days of providing services. However, he also warned that any hospital found attempting to make fraudulent claims would be excluded from the system.
Sifuna also took the opportunity to criticize President William Ruto, describing him as a failure. The senator claimed that Ruto was angry due to a perceived sense of defeat. Sifuna recalled that Ruto had previously used similar language against Raila Odinga, and he questioned the President's achievements.
The senator's criticism of Ruto was based on allegations of betraying his oath of office. Sifuna claimed that Ruto's actions and inactions have led to significant problems in the country. He also compared the allegations against himself and Ruto, stating that while he may be accused of being an extortionist, Ruto's column of allegations would be longer.
Sifuna also discussed the rebranding of his party, The Equitable Party (TEP), which will be transformed into Linda Mwananchi. He stated that the party's National Executive Committee (NEC) has ratified the name change, and the necessary submissions have been made to the Registrar. The party plans to use the new name in the 2027 elections.
Sifuna's proposals and criticisms of Ruto demonstrate his intention to run a transparent and accountable administration if elected President. His plans focus on addressing pressing issues in education, healthcare, and the economy. The senator's campaign will likely focus on these key areas as he prepares for the 2027 elections.
Key points
- Edwin Sifuna proposes cutting Ksh.500 billion to Ksh.1.8 trillion in wastage from the budget if elected President.
- Sifuna plans to establish a national data bank for schools to address misuse of public resources in the education sector.
- He promises to pay hospitals within 30 days of providing services, while warning against fraudulent claims.
