Businessman Jimi Wanjigi recently provided insights into his relationship with President William Ruto since Ruto’s assumption of office last year.
In an interview with The Standard on Wednesday, July 12, Wanjigi expressed that he harbors no personal issues with Ruto. However, he does hold strong disagreements with certain economic choices made by the President.
“President Ruto has been my friend for a long time but as president, we have not engaged. This is because I have taken a very independent stand in my politics.
“I have been giving him time to settle but that time has come to an end. As a President, he has put forward his first policy document and Kenyans do not like it; we do not like it. That honeymoon is now over and you see when Kenyans do not like something you [as a leader] have a very big problem.” he said.
According to Wanjigi, it is ineffective to address a problem by using the same approach that initially caused it. He expressed his dissatisfaction with how the economic affairs of the country are being managed, noting that the current administration is perpetuating the same issues that were initiated by former President Uhuru Kenyatta. Wanjigi strongly opposes the economic policies being implemented by the government.
In recent months, Wanjigi has been vocal about his stance on Ruto’s first budget and the approval of the Finance Act of 2023 by Parliament. On July 4, he showed his full support for a petition filed by Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah against the Finance Act, arguing that it does not meet constitutional requirements.
Regarding revenue generation, Wanjigi suggests that the government should explore alternative methods rather than burdening Kenyans with excessive taxes and increasing the cost of living.
Wanjigi’s statements align with the ongoing protests by Kenyans against the high cost of living and increased taxes, and he fully supports these demonstrations.
“Maandamano is a right in the Constitution and it has to be adhered to, I support it. We all are feeling the effects of the high cost of living whether personally or as an employer. Everything is going up.”
by: JobW