Former Mukurweini MP Kabando wa Kabando has defended the role of public participation in Kenya’s governance after Professor Makau Mutua, a constitutional advisor to President William Ruto, questioned its effectiveness.
Prof Makau, in a post on X, described public participation as largely symbolic, suggesting it serves as a tool for elites to justify policy decisions rather than a genuine measure of democratic legitimacy.
He argued that, while it may educate some citizens, it cannot replace plebiscites or scientific surveys in evaluating policy outcomes.
Responding on the same platform, Kabando rejected the assertion, saying Prof Makau’s comments “completely extinguish all iota of credibility” and accused him of aligning with Rutoism.
He acknowledged that public hearings are sometimes misused but stressed their importance in empowering citizens and ensuring accountability.
“While public hearings for public decisions are often abused to deodorise elite schemes, many are critical issues authenticated by Citizen Power. To try to delegitimise the judiciary or the Constitution of Kenya 2010 won’t fly,” Kabando said.
Public participation is mandated under Articles 10 and 196 of the Constitution of Kenya.
The provisions require the government to engage citizens in decisions affecting legislation, policy, and development initiatives.
Proponents say the practice is essential for transparency and helps citizens influence policies that directly affect their communities.
The disagreement between Kabando and Prof Makau underscores a broader conversation in Kenya about the scope and impact of citizen involvement in governance.
Kenya has a history of public participation in policy debates, including constitutional reforms, county development plans, and national budget consultations, highlighting the practice as a cornerstone of the country’s democratic framework.