‘Singapore vision is a pipe dream’ – Owalo tells Ruto
Former Deputy Chief of Staff in charge of Delivery and Government Efficiency in the Executive Office of the President, Eliud Owalo, has warned leaders against taking Kenyans for granted.
Speaking exclusively to a local TV station on Sunday, February 1, 2025, where he took the chance to trash the President William Ruto-led Singapore dream, Owalo boldly said it is an impossible goal.
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He started by saying it is 200% impossible for Kenya to reach the same level as Singapore when basic services are struggling, corruption is high, and taxes are punishing citizens.
“As leaders, we should be honest with the people. Singapore is a pipe dream; let’s not take Kenyans for granted.
“What politicians need to know is that Kenyans are more intelligent; they will know when you are taking them for a ride,” he said.
Owalo argued that the focus should instead be on tangible solutions that improve the lives of ordinary Kenyans.
He warned against selling unrealistic visions while ignoring systemic challenges in governance, public service delivery, and economic management.
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On the subject of coalitions, Owalo said he does not mind working with former vice president Kalonzo Musyoka or any other leader, as long as the agenda is genuinely to serve the common man.
He took aim at leaders who form alliances for convenience rather than the nation’s benefit.
“If I were elected president, I would sort out the punitive taxation regime. I will bring down income tax from 35% to 20%, I will bring down VAT from 16% to 10%, I will do away with digital tax,” Owalo said.
He insisted that leadership must be grounded in honesty and practical policies, rather than borrowed ideas from other countries that are far ahead in development.
