The selling point for this decision was to stabilize the country following months of protests, political tensions, and economic strain. However, events leading up to the 2027 general elections have sparked intense public debate on the broad-based government.
Many Kenyans remain uncertain, with the big question being: Is the broad-based government really delivering on its promise, or was it simply a tactical switch for political survival disguised as a quest for unity?
Recent public opinion surveys conducted by TIFA Research and further intimated by Pulse Kenya in January posted a mixed picture. 68% of those surveyed believed the country was headed in the wrong direction.
However, a section of the public has warmed to the broad-based government, believing it has played a role in reducing political temperatures and shining a light on the possibilities of inclusivity.
Some citizens believed that the handshake style of politics signified maturity and allowed leaders to focus on development rather than unending political theatrics.
Many believe that a government that has drawn from across the political divide for its operatives has the potential to implement necessary reforms and achieve national stability.
However, the optimism about the delivery of the broad-based government’s promise remains far from universal. Other polls and street sentiment indicate that many Kenyans remain skeptical.
The majority of critics have viewed the broad-based government as a pact of the political elite, benefiting the leaders more than it helps ordinary citizens.
A growing number of Kenyans believe that the unity achieved at the top has not brought relief to the bottom of the pyramid.
Taxes have continued to frustrate the bottom half. Unemployment and the cost of living have remained high.
Nation Africa and People Daily reported that some respondents believed the political pact between the government and the opposition blurred the line between oversight and government, leading to weakened accountability.
Also, governance concerns and corruption have remained a mainstay in public opinion, almost making it synonymous with the broad-based government.
Vocal MPs and civil society groups have questioned the effectiveness of the political pact, highlighting that it reduces scrutiny, given that former critics of the government now eat at the same table.
That has provided unity without accountability, which is rather dangerous and not progressive.
Nonetheless, some citizens remain willing to “wait and see.” They believe that the capacity of the broad-based government to stabilize the economy, improve service delivery, and address corruption may have a history that judges it kindly.
But the patience is wearing thin, and expectations remain high going into the 2027 elections.
