Kigame links rising debt to presidential contract decisions

By Newsflash Reporter

Presidential aspirant Reuben Kigame has called for legislation to prevent sitting presidents from signing long-term contracts that extend beyond their term in office, saying such agreements have contributed significantly to Kenya’s growing public debt and stalled development.

Speaking during the Second Interdenominational Prayer Breakfast at Kaimosi Friends University on Saturday, March 21, Kigame argued that leaders should only enter into agreements whose obligations fall within their constitutional tenure.

He said the country must put an end to what he described as irresponsible borrowing and contract signing that leaves future generations burdened with debts for projects they neither approved nor benefited from.

“A law should be passed stating that, if you are a president, you should not make contracts on behalf of the people of Kenya stretching beyond your term in office,” Kigame said.

According to him, many long-term government contracts have tied Kenyans to repayment obligations lasting decades, even after the leaders who signed them have left office.

“We need to stop the nonsense of a president signing things on behalf of the people of Kenya and then leaving power while enjoying some kind of immunity. It is unacceptable. You have a five- or ten-year term, then sign contracts that bind Kenyans for over 20 years,” he said.

Call for accountability and debt reforms

Kigame further proposed personal accountability for leaders who commit the country to costly deals that later become burdensome to taxpayers.

“Once you leave office, the money should be paid from your own pocket and not burden future generations with costs incurred during your tenure,” he added.

He criticised what he termed excessive government borrowing, saying some loans end up being repaid at nearly triple their original value, while several funded projects fail to deliver meaningful economic returns.

“You get into military contracts, sell government companies, and leave the people carrying the burden. We will come for you on the costs incurred and recover it from you as an individual. Something has to be done. One takes a loan and it is paid back at triple the amount or more over the years. Leadership must be different,” Kigame said.

His remarks come at a time when Kenya continues to face mounting public concern over debt servicing, with a large share of national revenue directed towards loan repayment, limiting resources available for social services and development projects.

Criticism of political conduct and leadership standards

Kigame also condemned the rising trend of personal verbal attacks witnessed in recent political rallies between leaders in government and the opposition, describing the exchanges as uncouth and unworthy of public office.

He said Kenya’s leadership crisis cannot be solved without first examining the character of those seeking elective positions.

“To get better leadership in Kenya, we must first check the character of a person,” he said.

He faulted both government and opposition leaders for inflammatory public remarks, saying leaders should exercise self-control and be mindful of their words when addressing citizens.

“I cannot defend the government of the day because of the insults we are hearing. Leaders must exercise self-control in what they say publicly,” he said.

Kigame urged Kenyans to elect fresh leaders in the next general election, arguing that experience should not be used as a shield for poor leadership.

“Let us check the character of every candidate—from MCAs to MPs, senators, governors, and the president—if we truly want change in leadership. They say we do not have experience; if that means we do not know how to steal or insult people, then we will not accept that standard,” he said.

He concluded by calling on all leaders to uphold integrity, respect, and emotional restraint when addressing the public, saying the country deserves leadership grounded in values and accountability.