This archive report was first published on 8 June 2020.
June 8, 2020, marked a turning point in Kenya's fight against the coronavirus pandemic. Despite the government's measures to curb the spread of the virus, Kenyans remain dissatisfied. The situation has been exacerbated by the pandemic, which has further strained an already struggling economy.
Clay Muganda, an editor at The Standard, notes that Kenyans have been in a state of disillusionment for years. The pandemic has only added to their woes, leaving them with little energy to even express joy at the prospect of improved lives.
According to social media posts and views from traders and individuals who have not lost their voices, Kenyans feel cheated, lied to, and taken for a ride. Their cries and outrage go unnoticed, and their social media noise has become a major issue.
Conspiracy theories have also emerged, with many dismissing the government's efforts as predatory and aimed at fleecing the public or donors. The Kenya Police Service has been accused of breaking laws and ignoring citizens' voices.
However, Muganda emphasizes that governments are guilty until proven innocent, and successive administrations in Kenya have given citizens no reason to trust them. He also notes that citizens have a personal responsibility to follow measures to curb the spread of the pandemic and listen to scientists and professionals.
Ultimately, Muganda believes that Kenyans' fake outrage and belligerence towards an uncaring parental authority will not curb the spread of Covid-19 in their communities.
