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Former Kakamega Senator and current Deputy Party Leader of the Democratic Congress Party (DCP), Cleophas Malala, has called for a national reflection on Kenya’s campaign culture, urging both politicians and voters to confront the growing trend of tokenism and unrealistic promises that define electoral seasons.
Speaking during an interview on a local TV station on Monday, June 23, 2025, Malala warned that the country is heading towards another cycle of populist pledges and short-term theatrics unless stakeholders begin having honest conversations about political accountability and economic reality.
“As we head to 2027, we must address the culture of our campaigns,” Malala stated.
“We have normalised lies, gimmicks, and promises that are neither funded nor feasible. It is a dangerous culture, and both leaders and citizens are to blame.”
Malala, who has positioned himself as a voice of reform within Kenya’s political circles in recent years, criticised the nature of political messaging, which often prioritises what is popular over what is practical.
He argued that leaders are pressured into promising instant miracles to win votes, only to confront harsh economic realities once in office.
“You make promises during campaigns just to impress the electorate. But upon assuming office, you realise things are different. Resources are limited, institutions are constrained, and the realities of government are far more complex than what was promised on the campaign trail,” he said.
He cited the growing culture of tokenism in Kenyan politics — a trend where both the electorate and political aspirants focus on handouts, slogans, and short-term wins, rather than long-term policy vision or sustainable development.
“Our elections have become platforms for transactional politics. It’s not about ideas or ideologies anymore. It’s about who can lie better, or who can give the biggest token,” Malala remarked.
Dismembering democracy?
According to him, this pattern undermines democracy, weakens trust in institutions, and creates a cycle of disillusionment among voters.
Malala also called upon political parties to take the lead in setting higher standards during the upcoming election period. He challenged party leaders and presidential hopefuls to craft manifestos grounded in realistic projections and verifiable plans.
“Political parties must also evolve,” he said.
“We should not be platforms for drama and deception. We must present candidates who speak truthfully, who acknowledge that governance is a long-term commitment, not a show.”
He urged the press and civil society to also play a role in reshaping the campaign narrative by holding politicians accountable for what they say and encouraging informed debates.
With less than two years to the next general election, Malala’s remarks add to growing concerns among Kenyans about the sustainability of the country’s political promises and the credibility of its leadership.
“If we don’t change this now, we will keep electing people who are good at campaigns but fail at governance,” asserted.
