Jimi Wanjigi Warns Kenya’s Debt Could Cripple Economy Until 2040, Positions Himself as Opposition’s 2027 Leader.

Nakuru, Kenya – Safina Party leader Jimi Wanjigi has raised alarm over Kenya’s rising debt, warning that without urgent corrective measures, the country’s economic burden could persist until 2040. Speaking at a party meeting in Nakuru, Wanjigi criticized the government’s handling of public finances and urged the opposition to unite behind his 2027 presidential bid.

A significant portion of Kenya’s tax revenue, Wanjigi noted, is currently allocated to debt servicing, leaving limited resources for essential public services and development projects. “Kama wanataka kumngoa Ruto, kama ni ukweli shida ni William Ruto na uchumi wetu… hakuna mwingine, munamwangalia hapa hapa,” he told party delegates, asserting that he offers the strongest alternative agenda.

Kenya’s Debt Crisis and the Opposition’s Path Forward.

Wanjigi compared debt trends under past administrations, highlighting that previous leaders struggled to reduce the debt-to-GDP ratio. He cited that during President Kibaki’s tenure, debt remained manageable, but under President Uhuru Kenyatta, borrowing surged despite increasing tax revenue. “Sasa wakati wa Kibaki, one trillion na two trillion ilikuwa two times… Uhuru alikaa 2013… ushuru ulikuwa imifika 2T na deni ilikuwa imefika 9T… tumpigie makofi, ametuzidia na shida,” Wanjigi stated.

He accused the current government of mismanagement, claiming borrowing continues without tangible benefits for citizens. “Hii shida inatumaliza, kama nyinyi hamna pesa, mnadhani serikali iko na pesa?… anakopa, ile anakula State House, anakopa. Petroli? Anakopa,” Wanjigi said, likening his leadership role to a “Noah’s Ark” figure capable of steering Kenya through its economic challenges.

According to the National Treasury, Kenya’s public and publicly guaranteed debt stood at approximately Ksh.11.814 trillion (about 67.8% of GDP) as of June 2025, marking an 11.7% increase from 2024. Wanjigi warned that without a clear debt reduction strategy, the nation’s living standards will remain under pressure.