Kenya’s economy entered a storm when Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi took office. The country faced a cash-strapped Treasury, delayed salaries, and rising fears of loan defaults. Today, Mbadi claims the worst is behind Kenya.
He says the economy is stable, debt risks are lower, and government operations are back on track. His bold defence of President William Ruto’s administration has stirred strong reactions nationwide.
This article breaks down his claims, the data he cites, and what his message means for Kenyans who have lived through a harsh economic reality.
How Mbadi Stabilizing Economy Message Challenges Government Critics
Treasury CS John Mbadi has placed himself at the centre of Kenya’s economic debate. He insists he walked into a Treasury that was nearly collapsing. He claims government accounts were so empty that he feared Kenya would miss salary payments and loan obligations.
Mbadi shared this story in Migori during a weekend event. He said he and his team often worried about how government employees would be paid. The Treasury also lacked clear funds for loan repayments. This uncertainty, he said, pushed investors to panic, which weakened the shilling.
He argued that many Kenyans forget how fragile the economy was when he took office. He claimed previous managers left a system stretched, stressed, and unable to meet basic obligations.
Mbadi said the government not only fixed the cash crisis but also introduced changes that helped stabilise debt. He pointed to the decision to de-risk a major loan expected in 2027. He said this move prevented future shock and restored investor confidence.
He credited President William Ruto for giving him the support needed to act fast. According to him, the Head of State backed every tough financial decision, making it easier to push reforms that restored order in government spending.
Mbadi Bragging of Stabilizing Economy Opposes Claims of Government Failure
Mbadi did not hide his frustration with critics who say the government has done nothing to improve people’s lives. He argued that those attacking the administration ignore the reforms already in place.
He insisted that the economic crisis did not start under Ruto. Instead, he claimed it was created by previous officeholders who failed to manage public finances responsibly. He said Ruto’s team inherited an empty Treasury that lacked the basic capacity to run the country.
According to him, Kenyans now enjoy a better economic environment compared to last year. He believes critics refuse to admit the progress because of political loyalty, not facts.
He urged Kenyans to look at the data, not emotions. He said the economy today is more stable, more predictable, and more organised than when he was appointed.
Highlights On Regional Development
Mbadi also used the event to highlight development projects in Nyanza. He said the upgrade of Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital from level five to level six is a major win for the region. He noted that the hospital budget jumped from Ksh.500 million to Ksh.3 billion under Ruto’s leadership.
He told residents of Migori that they will benefit from projects worth Ksh.2.3 billion. He framed these achievements as evidence that Ruto has not sidelined the region, despite its history of political opposition.
Mbadi urged the Luo community to support the President, saying development should not depend on political rivalry. He said Ruto has shown goodwill and commitment to improving lives in Nyanza.
How Economy Debate Shapes Political Mood in Nyanza
Mbadi’s comments have widened the political conversation in Nyanza. His supporters say he is telling the truth about the financial mess he inherited. His critics accuse him of defending a government that has increased taxes and raised the cost of living.
But Mbadi remains firm. He says the economy is no longer in crisis. He argues that Kenyans should judge progress by looking at stability, not emotion or politics.
His message is clear. The economy was in danger. The Treasury was empty. Salaries were at risk. Loans were uncertain. But today, he says, Kenya stands on firmer ground.
Whether Kenyans buy this message will shape the political mood ahead of future elections. For now, Mbadi wants the country to focus on recovery, stability, and the work that remains.
