Speaking during a media interview, Kioni claimed that the government had deceived residents of the Mt Kenya region and other Kenyans who supported it during the last election.
In his strongest remarks, Kioni used the term “economic genocide” to characterize the impact of government policies.
Kioni’s comments underscore a widening rift between the ruling coalition and the Jubilee Party, which has increasingly positioned itself in opposition to the current administration.
Once a dominant political force, Jubilee has been seeking to reassert its influence amid shifting alliances and growing dissatisfaction among its support base.
Analysts note that the Mt Kenya region—considered a key political battleground—has recently shown signs of unease, with some leaders voicing concerns over economic management and governance.
Kioni’s remarks tap into these sentiments, signaling a broader attempt to rally support and reshape the political narrative ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Despite the criticism, the government has maintained that its policies are aimed at stabilizing the economy and delivering long-term growth.
Officials have pointed to ongoing reforms and development programs as evidence of progress, even as they acknowledge the challenges facing citizens.
Kioni’s statement adds to the increasingly heated political discourse in the country, where leaders are adopting sharper rhetoric as competition intensifies.
His warning that the government will be held accountable at the ballot reflects the stakes involved as political camps begin positioning themselves for the next election cycle.
