By Njeri Irungu,
18 March 2026,
Lukenya, Machakos County- Kenya.
A coalition of civil society organisations, governance actors, and citizen groups has issued a strong call for urgent reforms, warning that millions of Kenyans are grappling with a worsening cost of living and declining economic prospects. Speaking under the banner #MaishaBoraSasa, the groups described the phrase “maisha ni mbaya” not as a slogan, but as a daily reality for households across the country. The CSOs were convened by Inuka Kenya ni Sisi.
The statement, issued after an intersectoral leadership retreat in Lukenya, Athi River, brought together representatives from labour unions, youth movements, faith-based organisations, and governance institutions. Despite their diversity, the groups said they are united by a shared concern over the country’s direction and the wellbeing of its citizens.
They warned that Kenya is at a critical moment, where democratic institutions remain in place but are steadily losing their effectiveness. Rising economic hardship, shrinking civic space, and declining public trust, they said, are eroding the foundations of governance and accountability.
The coalition pointed to the June 2024 Gen Z protests as a defining moment, describing them as a public “verdict” on broken promises and widening inequality. They argued that the demonstrations exposed a growing disconnect between leaders and citizens, calling for sustained democratic renewal rather than sporadic responses.
Concerns were also raised over what the groups termed as increasing attacks on civic space, including abductions, alleged illegal deportations, surveillance, and intimidation. They emphasized that civic space is a constitutional right that must be protected to allow citizens to freely express themselves and hold leaders accountable.
The statement further warned of threats to democracy, including the concentration of political power, interference in independent institutions, and the passage of laws without meaningful public participation. Parliament, they said, must assert its independence and uphold its constitutional mandate.
With the 2027 general election approaching, the coalition stressed the urgency of reforms to ensure credible and transparent processes. They called for improved campaign financing regulations, stronger electoral institutions, and increased voter registration, particularly among young people.
Economic concerns featured prominently, with the groups questioning the management of public debt and the lack of transparency in how borrowed funds are utilised. They argued that this has significantly contributed to the country’s current financial strain.
Corruption was also identified as a key factor behind the deteriorating socio-economic conditions, with claims that misuse of public resources has weakened critical sectors such as health, education, and housing, leaving citizens to bear the consequences.
The coalition expressed skepticism over several government initiatives, including infrastructure projects and social programmes, arguing that their benefits have not adequately reached ordinary Kenyans. Instead, they said, many appear to favour a select few while essential services continue to decline.
They highlighted ongoing challenges such as overcrowded classrooms, under-resourced hospitals, rising youth unemployment, and inadequate disaster preparedness, noting that recent flood-related deaths exposed systemic gaps. At the same time, they questioned government spending priorities, particularly increased allocations to State House.
In conclusion, the coalition called on all arms of government to uphold constitutional principles, ensure accountability, and protect citizens’ rights. They also urged Kenyans, especially young people, to actively participate in civic processes, emphasizing that the country’s democratic future depends on collective action and sustained public engagement.