The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) on Saturday, August 19, responded to the matter in which a 28-year-old engineering graduate set himself on fire due to high cost of living.
In a statement shared by former Prime Minister Raila Odinga's Party, ODM passed the blame squarely on President William Ruto's door claiming the Kenya Kwanza government had failed to address the plight of ordinary Kenyans, who are struggling to make ends meet.
ODM's comments came after a 28-year-old engineering graduate set himself on fire in Mombasa on Thursday, August 16, after claiming that he was disillusioned by the high cost of living.
"The pain of losing a loved one as a result of empty promises by those in power. The victim had hopes in life, a vision and dreams, the only thing he needed was an enabling environment by the government to fulfill them," ODM asserted.
The student sustained 50 per cent burns and died later at a hospital in Mombasa.
"It is sad he had to take his own life. To family and friends, we are very sorry," the Orange Democratic Movement said in the statement.
ODM stated that the young engineer's death highlights the plight of many Kenyans who are struggling to survive. The party called on President William Ruto to take immediate action to address the high cost of living.
"This is a sad day for Kenya," ODM said. "A young man has taken his own life because he could not afford to live. This is a direct result of the failures of the government."
Ruto has not yet responded to ODM's criticism. However, he has previously stated that the government is doing everything it can to address the high cost of living.
While addressing a gathering at Kasarani on Friday, August 17, Ruto stated that the government is working to create jobs and opportunities for Kenyans.
However, the Head of Sate noted that the high cost of living is a major issue in Kenya. The prices of food, fuel, and other essential commodities have been rising steadily in recent months.
President Ruto said the government was working to resolve the sticky issues, including the state of the economy which has put a strain on the budgets of many Kenyans making it difficult for them to make ends meet.
Ruto also stated that the government has taken some steps to address the high cost of living, such as distributing subsidised fertiliser.
