As public anxiety over the proposed 2026 Finance Bill continues to grow, Political Ringside host Tony Yakoko sat down with Jubilee Party National Youth Chairperson and Kiambu Woman Representative aspirant Angel Mbuthia for a wide-ranging conversation on taxation, governance, youth activism and the road to the 2027 General Election.
Speaking on Political Ringside, Mbuthia said the public backlash currently being witnessed online is not simply about taxes, but reflects a deeper trust deficit between Kenyans and the Kenya Kwanza administration.
According to her, many citizens have become increasingly sceptical of government promises following previous Finance Bills that sparked nationwide protests and heated public debate. She argued that ordinary Kenyans continue to shoulder the burden of rising taxes and increased living costs while demanding greater accountability from those in power.
Angel Mbuthia speaks to Political Ringside.
The Jubilee youth leader also criticised what she described as misplaced spending priorities within government, questioning rising allocations to the Office of the President at a time when many sectors are struggling with funding challenges.
During the interview, Mbuthia further discussed public-private partnership projects, claiming some communities feel excluded from key decisions affecting local heritage sites and public resources. She urged leaders to place citizens at the centre of development planning.
A significant part of the discussion focused on the political awakening of Kenyan youth following the 2024 anti-Finance Bill protests. Mbuthia noted that today’s generation is more informed, politically conscious and increasingly interested in leadership positions than previous generations.
She revealed that many parents who were once hesitant about politics are now encouraging and supporting young people seeking elective office, creating what she described as a new era of youth participation in governance.
The conversation also touched on former President Uhuru Kenyatta’s recent remarks to Kiambu delegates, with Mbuthia praising calls for responsible leadership and caution against divisive political rhetoric.
Looking ahead to 2027, she challenged young Kenyans to move beyond protests and actively engage in political structures, including voter registration, party activities, nominations and grassroots mobilisation.
Mbuthia concluded with a call for young people to contest leadership positions and help shape the country’s future through democratic processes.
The exclusive interview is part of Political Ringside’s continuing coverage of Kenya’s evolving political landscape, providing viewers with in-depth conversations featuring influential political voices, emerging leaders and key national issues.
Watch the full interview on Political Ringside’s YouTube channel.
