Replies range from calls for stronger local accountability and transparency to frustration with the cost of elections and the size of government. Some focus on specific services like roads, water and education, while others argue civic education matters more than institutional change. There is disagreement about whether the main problem is leadership, systems or public participation.
Replies worth reading
“I would start with transparency at the county level. People can see what is happening locally more easily than in Nairobi.”
Why it matters: a concrete, local starting point rather than a national slogan.
“In our ward, public participation meetings happen, but people do not feel their views change anything. That is the gap.”
Why it matters: distinguishes formal participation from real influence.
“Elections are expensive. Reducing the number of elected positions could free up resources for services.”
Why it matters: a testable claim about cost — worth checking against budget figures.
“Changing structures will not fix anything if the same incentives remain. We need stronger civic education first.”
Why it matters: the core counterargument to structural reform.
Main perspectives
Accountability and transparency
Local accountability, real public participation and visible use of public funds.
Systems vs. culture
Debate over whether institutional reform or civic education is the better starting point.