‘Who Takes Sodas?’ Mbadi Says Rising Soft-Drink Consumption Shows Kenyans Have More Money
Mbadi argued that increased demand for sodas could suggest that households have some money left after meeting their basic needs.
Nairobi, Kenya - National Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi defended President William Ruto's economic record, citing a rise in soft-drink consumption as proof that some Kenyans now have more disposable income. Mbadi argued this indicates a situation where households have money leftover after meeting their basic needs. He made these remarks while responding to criticism of the government's economic performance.
Mbadi claimed the government has stabilized an economy nearing a tipping point since their administration took office. He went on to accuse some critics of opposing the administration's policies on ethnic grounds rather than economic ones. His comments come amid political debate about the government's economic policies and their impact on ordinary Kenyans.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, a prominent critic of the administration, has accused the Kenya Kwanza government of worsening living costs due to higher taxes, increased utility and transport prices, and an increasing national debt. He is preparing an assessment of Ruto's four-year tenure, which will likely form part of his political criticism ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Mbadi announced the government is preparing additional measures to ease financial burdens on Kenyans, including a Bill to be introduced in Parliament by the end of September. This measure seeks to provide relief, in line with President Ruto's promise to help citizens. He dismissed doubts about the President's commitment to follow through on this promise.
While Mbadi pointed to increased soft-drink consumption as evidence of improved purchasing power, he did not provide specific data to directly link this increase to higher disposable incomes. Factors like pricing, population growth, product availability, and changing consumer preferences can also affect consumption patterns. Mbadi still maintained that the government's economic record deserved recognition and urged to give credit where it is due.
Written by urgent.news from Capital FM Kenya's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
