By Andrew Mbuva
The opposition coalition, operating under the United Alternative Government (UAG), has intensified pressure on President William Ruto's administration, demanding greater transparency over reported Ebola-related arrangements, rejecting the proposed Finance Bill 2026, and announcing plans to field a joint candidate in the forthcoming Ol Kalou Parliamentary by-election.
In a statement released on Tuesday following a meeting of coalition leaders, the opposition accused the government of secrecy and poor communication regarding what it described as Ebola-related agreements and protocols, arguing that Kenyans deserve full disclosure on any arrangements that could affect public health and national security.
Led by UAG Convenor Kalonzo Musyoka, the coalition called for the immediate publication of all agreements, commitments, and documentation relating to Ebola-related programmes and facilities. The opposition argued that public confidence had been eroded by what it termed a lack of transparency and accountability in the government's handling of the matter.
The leaders maintained that any arrangements involving infectious diseases must be subjected to the highest levels of public scrutiny, noting that trust in public institutions can only be built through openness and clear communication with citizens.
The coalition also launched a fresh attack on the Finance Bill 2026, describing it as evidence that the government has failed to learn from public opposition to previous tax measures. According to the opposition, the bill places an additional burden on workers, farmers, traders, small businesses, and ordinary households at a time when many Kenyans are grappling with rising living costs and economic hardship.
The leaders argued that before introducing new taxes, the government should first address corruption, eliminate wastage in public spending, and ensure accountability in the management of public resources. They maintained that citizens are not opposed to contributing to national development but are demanding value for money and prudent use of public funds.
Referencing the youth-led protests against the Finance Bill 2024, the opposition said many young Kenyans continue to demand reforms aimed at improving governance, transparency, and economic accountability.
On the political front, the United Alternative Government announced that it will support a single candidate in the upcoming Ol Kalou Parliamentary by-election. The coalition said the candidate will be selected through an independent scientific survey and opinion polling process designed to identify the aspirant with the strongest chances of securing victory.
The opposition described the by-election as an important test of Kenya's democratic institutions and called on the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), security agencies, and all political stakeholders to guarantee a peaceful, free, fair, and transparent electoral process.
The coalition further warned against voter bribery, misuse of public resources, intimidation of voters, and any attempts to influence the outcome through state machinery. It emphasized that voters should be allowed to exercise their democratic rights without coercion or undue influence.
In its concluding remarks, the opposition linked the three issues to what it termed a broader challenge of leadership, accountability, and governance in the country. The coalition pledged to continue pushing for transparency, economic justice, democratic freedoms, and leadership that prioritizes the welfare of citizens.
The statement signals a renewed effort by opposition leaders to consolidate their political agenda ahead of future electoral contests while maintaining pressure on the government over governance and economic issues that continue to dominate national debate.
