Justina Wamae: Politicians chasing showbiz while Kenyans suffer — “Vita vya panzi, furaha ya mvuvi”

Nairobi, Kenya — September 24, 2025, 19:40 EAT

Journalist and civic commentator Justina Wamae has strongly criticised political leaders for prioritising theatrics and partisan battles while ignoring the daily hardships faced by ordinary citizens. In a sharp condemnation, she invoked the Swahili proverb “Vita vya panzi, furaha ya mvuvi”—roughly translated to mean that while politicians fight over trivialities, the common people are left to celebrate whatever crumbs fall to them.

The Latest

• During a televised discussion, Wamae recited a list of 10 major crises she believes are plaguing Kenya, urging leaders to address these instead of engaging in “political soap operas.”

• She warned that unless leaders shift their focus to real suffering—such as unemployment, rising costs, service breakdowns—public trust will erode further.

• Wamae dismissed many of the ongoing political feuds, strategic alliances and grandstanding as distractions that gloss over systemic failures.

The 10 Crises Wamae Cited (Paraphrased)

While her full list was not published verbatim, the themes she highlighted include:

1. Cost of living — soaring food, fuel, housing costs

2. Unemployment / underemployment — especially among youth

3. Healthcare system collapse — lack of drugs, strikes, long queues

4. Education crisis — school closures, underpaid staff, inadequate facilities

5. County dysfunction — delayed salaries, stalled development projects

6. Debt burden — high national debt servicing crowding out social spending

7. Infrastructure decay — roads, water, electricity failing in many areas

8. Governance and corruption — funds diverted, weak accountability

9. Security lapses — banditry, inspections, theft of public assets

10. Lack of voice / civic space — citizen concerns ignored in political debates

Wamae argued that leaders should be judged by how well they tackle these challenges, not by political positioning.

Context & Stakes

• Kenya is entering a charged pre-election period ahead of 2027, with politicians actively reconfiguring alliances, courting communities, and posturing for dominance.

• Many Kenyans, grappling with real hardship—fuel and food inflation, public service shortages, unpaid wages—feel disconnected from political spectacle.

• Wamae’s comments tap into growing frustration among urban and rural citizens alike who demand substance over stagecraft.

Voices & Reactions

• Justina Wamae: Asserts that public discourse must reflect the lived realities of Kenyans rather than rehearsals for election campaigns.

• Political leaders / parties: May feel challenged by Wamae’s critique, but the remarks could prompt responses either defending their record or pledging redirection.

• Civil society / media: Likely to echo her concerns, pushing for more accountability, citizen prioritisation, and evidence-based policymaking.

• Public / electorate: The message may resonate strongly, especially in communities suffering service breakdowns or stagnation.

Risks, Implications & Scenarios

• Challenge to narratives: Political messaging focused on personalities or alliances may lose traction if people believe their basic needs are being neglected.

• Pressure on incumbents and opposition: Both sides will need to show that they can deliver, not just debate or promise.

• Media spotlight: Wamae’s critique could motivate deeper investigative reporting on the ten crisis areas she named.

• Voter behaviour shift: Some citizens may disengage from party loyalties and instead demand performance and accountability.