Political activist Morara Kebaso has dismissed suggestions that he should pursue a parliamentary seat, arguing that individual MPs have limited capacity to influence major reforms in Kenya.
He made the remarks in a statement on X, emphasizing that the parliamentary system and party structures restrict meaningful change.
Kebaso highlighted that most parliamentary votes, including on appointments, budgets, and impeachment motions, are determined by party lines.
He said party leaders often direct how MPs vote, sometimes influenced by financial incentives, leaving little room for independent action.
“The only thing a good MP can do is give good speeches for TikTok sound bites,” Kebaso wrote.
The activist also addressed the constraints of constituency development funds (CDF), noting that even a budget of 100 million shillings can only achieve minor improvements, such as building classrooms, police posts, or providing bursaries.
He argued that while such projects serve communities, they do not tackle the larger issues of corruption, poverty, and economic stagnation.
Kebaso contrasted these limitations with his broader priorities, which include curbing grand corruption, recovering stolen public funds, and promoting industrialization to create jobs.
He criticized politicians motivated primarily by personal gain, including salaries, perks, and access to government tenders. According to him, financial incentives are unlikely to drive his leadership decisions, as he already possesses personal wealth and stability.
Citing examples like Babu Owino and other MPs attempting legislative reforms, Kebaso described how powerful interest groups can stall bills by influencing committee leaders or offering financial inducements, reinforcing his view that individual MPs struggle to enact systemic change.
Instead, Kebaso urged the youth to mobilize politically, advocating for the formation of a party capable of electing over 100 MPs.
He believes that a disciplined, mission-driven group could challenge entrenched corruption and push for structural reforms, provided it resists diversion by personal interests or party politics.