LDP Secretary General Denis Kodhe. PHOTO:POOL
The Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) has strongly dismissed claims and political rhetoric by the Kenya Kwanza government suggesting that Kenya is on a path to becoming “a Singapore.”
The Party notes that Singapore, as part of the Asian Tigers, achieved its current economic status through decades of disciplined governance, long-term planning, sound institutions, and hard work.
“Singapore did not become what it is today through slogans or political soundbites. It took years of deliberate planning, integrity in governance, and realistic economic strategies,” said LDP Secretary General Dr. Denise A. O. Kodhe.
LDP recalls the words of the late former Minister for Foreign Affairs, Dr. Robert John Ouko, who cautioned that “dreams are just dreams and not realities.” While aspirations are important, LDP emphasizes that national leadership must distinguish between realistic policy and mere political fantasy.
“Like anyone else, leaders have a right to dream. However, it is irresponsible to place an entire country at a crossroads based on ambitions and ideas that are neither practical nor achievable,” Dr. Kodhe added.
The Party maintains that Kenya is currently unprepared for such lofty comparisons, citing serious challenges in governance, corruption, infrastructure, and national cohesion.
“Before we talk about becoming Singapore, Malaysia, or Japan, Kenya must first put its house in order. Corruption, bad governance, and tribalism must be confronted decisively if we are serious about national progress,” the Secretary General stated.
LDP further questions the sincerity of the Kenya Kwanza government, noting inconsistencies in its own economic promises.
“Kenyans must ask: what happened to the Bottom-Up Economic Model? How can the government abandon its own flagship agenda and suddenly sell new dreams of becoming Singapore?” Dr. Kodhe posed.
The Party warns Kenyans to remain vigilant against political statements used to manipulate public opinion for personal or electoral gain.
“The ‘Singapore dream’ may sound inspiring, but at this moment it is misplaced and potentially dangerous. It risks distracting Kenyans from urgent issues affecting their daily lives,” said Dr. Kodhe.
LDP also raises alarm over what it describes as covert attempts by Kenya Kwanza leaders to privatize or sell strategic national assets for personal benefit.
“Projects such as the Expressway, questionable dealings around the Kenya Pipeline Company, and attempts to auction assets like the Kenya Airports Authority and Kenya Ports Authority raise serious red flags,” the Party warned.
The formation of a government-backed company purportedly aimed at transforming Kenya into “a Singapore,” endorsed by Parliament, is viewed by LDP as particularly suspicious.
“This move is not about transformation. It is a calculated and corrupt strategy to create business and financial empires for a few politicians under the guise of national development,” Dr. Kodhe said.
The Liberal Democratic Party calls upon opposition leaders to rise to the occasion and actively defend the country.
“The opposition must stop issuing statements from hotel conference rooms and gated residences. They must come out, mobilize citizens, and resist punitive, corrupt, and exploitative policies,” urged Dr. Kodhe.
LDP further challenged opposition leaders to show courage in confronting what it terms an increasingly oppressive government.
“They should not fear intimidation or teargas. They should emulate the late former Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga, who fearlessly confronted oppressive regimes head-on in defense of the people,” Dr. Kodhe concluded.
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