President Uhuru Kenyatta and Opposition Leader Raila Odinga could on Monday next week come face to face with the harsh reality of their past mistakes if they avail themselves for the 2017 Presidential debate.
Among the various issues the two will be tasked to explain will be some of the major scandals and shortcomings that hit the administrations they headed.
They include:
1. Corruption and Integrity
President Kenyatta would be tasked to explain the Sh250 Billion Eurobond saga, the National Youth Service (NYS) scandal, and allegations that the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) was inflated to the tune of over Sh100 Billion.
Raila, on the other hand, will be required to respond to claims that he has been shielding corrupt leaders in the opposition while attacking Jubilee’s administration for abetting corruption. He will also to address allegations that his family has been soliciting for bribes from Dominion Farm.
2. National Cohesion
The Jubilee administration has been accused of only appointing officials from two communities. The Head of State could be required to address the issue.
The former Prime Minister has been accused of nepotism during his time in office. During the debate, he could be questioned on the allegations that he hired his relatives to top positions in government.
3. Food Security and Cost of Living
President Kenyatta's regime has witnessed one of the worst food crisis in the country, he will be required to address what happened leading to the importation of maize from Mexico.
Mr Odinga on his part will be required to explain measures put in place (what the National Super Alliance manifesto says on food security) to address the food crisis in the country.
4. Youth
The Head of State would be expected to explain to the youth why there is a high rate of unemployment yet they promised to create a million jobs and why more than Sh800 Million was lost in the Youth Enterprise Development Fund (YEDF).
The ODM Leader, on the other hand, could be required to explain what happened to the Kazi Kwa Vijana initiative and explain to Kenyans his plan to kill the unemployment menace in the country.
5. Defence and Internal Security
Under the Jubilee administration, Kenya has witnessed the worst terror attack in the country's history. President Kenyatta will be tasked to explain why Kenya has lost many of its soldiers, the exit strategy for KDF and how he would ensure peace in West Pokot and Baringo.
Raila on his part would be required to explain why he wants KDF to withdraw from Somalia yet he was part of the team that sent them there. He will also be required to explain how he will ensure that Kenyans are safe both within the border and beyond.
Editor's Note: The issues would only be addressed if the duo avails themselves at the debate considering that on Wednesday they indicated that they may not attend the debate.
