NAIROBI, Kenya- Kenya’s President William Ruto is renowned for his eloquence and persuasive charm, earning him the nickname “The Sweet-Tongued Politician” by his former boss Uhuru Kenyatta.
His ability to tailor his messages to suit any occasion and audience has in the past won him admiration and, undoubtedly, political mileage.
However, beneath this veneer of charm lies a significant danger: the peril of over-promising.
History is replete with examples of politicians whose grandiose promises have led to disillusionment, unrest, and even downfall.
Over-promising is a common pitfall for politicians seeking to secure votes and maintain public favor.
The allure of making grand commitments can be irresistible, especially when they generate immediate support.
However, the inability to fulfill these promises often results in a loss of credibility and trust, both crucial elements for effective leadership.
One of the most glaring examples of the dangers of over-promising can be seen in the tenure of Herbert Hoover, the 31st President of the United States.
Hoover ascended to the presidency in 1929, promising prosperity and stability.
However, his tenure was marred by the Great Depression, an economic catastrophe that his administration was ill-equipped to handle.
Hoover’s inability to deliver on his promises of economic recovery and stability led to widespread discontent and significantly tarnished his legacy.
Similarly, in recent African history, Robert Mugabe of Zimbabwe is another cautionary tale.
Mugabe came to power in 1980 with promises of economic empowerment and land redistribution.
While his early years saw some progress, his later policies, particularly the chaotic land reform program, led to economic collapse and hyperinflation.
The gap between his promises and the harsh reality eroded public trust and eventually led to his forced resignation in 2017.
Closer to home, former Kenyan President Daniel arap Moi’s long rule was characterized by a slew of unfulfilled promises.
Moi often promised development projects and economic reforms that never materialized, leading to widespread frustration and skepticism among Kenyans.
His era is often remembered for economic stagnation and corruption, overshadowing any positive aspects of his leadership.
The current Kenyan administration under President Ruto risks falling into a similar trap.
Ruto’s ambitious promises, including creating jobs, reducing the cost of living, and implementing extensive social programs, are undoubtedly appealing.
However, the stark reality of Kenya’s economic constraints and systemic challenges raises questions about the feasibility of these promises.
Over-promising not only sets unrealistic expectations but also undermines public trust when those promises are not fulfilled.
Politicians must balance ambition with pragmatism, ensuring that their commitments are both achievable and sustainable.
Failure to do so can lead to public disillusionment, social unrest, and a lasting negative impact on their legacy.
Moreover, the repercussions of over-promising extend beyond the individual politician.
When leaders fail to deliver on their promises, it fosters a culture of cynicism and apathy among the electorate.
Citizens become less engaged and more skeptical of political processes, weakening the very foundations of democracy.
The situation in Kenya today exemplifies these dangers. The Financial Bill 2024 has sparked widespread protests, primarily led by GenZs.
However, the discontent runs deeper than just opposition to the bill.
This new generation, armed with technology and a wealth of information, is acutely aware of the promises made and broken by their leaders.
They are using social media platforms to hold politicians accountable, reviving old files and videos that showcase unfulfilled promises. This digital-savvy generation is not easily swayed by rhetoric; they demand tangible results.
GenZs in Kenya are also unique in their non-tribal approach, breaking away from the ethnic-based politics that have historically plagued the country.
They are unified by common issues such as unemployment, the high cost of living, and corruption, which transcend ethnic boundaries.
Their frustration is compounded by the fact that many promises made to address these issues have not been fulfilled, fueling their determination to demand accountability.
