Citizen TV anchor Yvonne Okwara urged Kenyans to continue raising their concerns regarding any policy or legislation proposal under President William Ruto’s regime.
In the Newsgang Show on Thursday, September 14, Okwara underscored the importance of their opinions indicating that it was a way of promoting democracy and holding the government to account.
She lauded the large turnout during the Finance Bill public participation forums across the country which she noted informed some changes.
However, Okwara implored Kenyans to keep an eye on the outcome of the bipartisan talks chaired by Wiper Party Leader Kalonzo Musyoka and Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah.
“Just taking a glance at the short term, the National Dialogue Committee has begun its work. Sixty days is the deadline they have given themselves. Fellow Kenyans, keep your eyes and ears open. The discussions there could have some far-reaching effects, or perhaps less significantly so. Whichever way, those changes will certainly affect you and your loved ones. Let us all beware and engage with that process,” Okwara stated.
Besides voicing their opinions on the bipartisan talks outcome, the seasoned anchor informed Kenyans on new proposed taxes targeting car owners, schools with special facilities, and other facilities.
Okwara argued that the proposed taxes would greatly impact their lifestyles.
“Further, there is a document that is now becoming the talk of the town. Taxes, again. The National Treasury has put out a draft of the Medium Term Revenue Strategy, which lays out some key tax collection proposals for the term between 2024 and 2027,” she stated.
“Keep talking. Don’t let anyone stifle your voice. You may not speak in technical terms, you may not be an “expert” on a particular topic, but as long as a policy, law, regulation, or legislation affects you, you are not just an expert, you are the expert. Let no one silence you. Speak your mind, say it loud, and say it proud whether you have the now proverbial alternative solution or not. We are all Kenyans, and Kenya is for all of us. You did it in the last one year. You can do it again in the next year and the years to come,” Okwara summarized her take on the Newsgang.
Fellow anchor Sam Gituku lauded Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki on his efforts to clear passport backlog at the immigration offices. He however implored him to clear the mess completely.
