Former Deputy Chief of Staff in charge of Delivery and Government Efficiency Eliud Owalo has defended his decision to resign from government and declared his intention to run for president in 2027.
Speaking during a morning talk show on a local radio station on Wednesday, Owalo said he voluntarily stepped down on January 11, 2026, after listening to concerns from Kenyans over the high cost of living, heavy taxation, and declining trust in political leaders.
Owalo, who previously served as ICT Cabinet Secretary in the administration of William Ruto, said his entry into government in 2022 marked his first formal employment after more than two decades in the private sector as a consultant.
He dismissed claims that he was forced out of government, insisting his resignation was informed by the need to prepare early for his presidential bid and respond to citizens’ concerns.
“I resigned after listening to Kenyans across the country who are struggling with the cost of living and have lost faith in leaders who fail to deliver on their promises,” he said.
The former senior official cited what he termed a “leadership deficit” in government, blaming political interference and weak institutional independence for stalled reforms and ineffective service delivery.
“As a minister, your role is largely advisory. You give recommendations, but implementation depends on others, and in some cases, my advice was not taken,” he said.
Owalo outlined an economic agenda anchored on tax reforms, proposing a reduction in income tax from 85 per cent to 20 per cent, a cut in VAT from 16 per cent to 10 per cent, and the scrapping of digital tax to boost disposable income.
“If elected, I will lower taxes, eliminate unnecessary levies and ensure Kenyans have more disposable income to drive economic growth,” he said.
On corruption, Owalo said his administration would prioritize full digitalization of government services to seal loopholes that enable loss of public funds, citing gains made during his tenure at the ICT ministry.
The former CS said if elected President, he would reopen corruption cases against individuals suspected of having been involved in misappropriation and misuse of funds borrowed by the government for development as part of his commitment to fight corruption
Owalo also pledged tougher action, including reopening and reviewing major graft cases dating back to 2010.
“We will revisit all major corruption cases from 2010 to date, ensure proper investigations are conducted, and those responsible are held accountable,” he said.
On regional development, Owalo said his administration would focus on value addition in agriculture and industrialization across counties, including Uasin Gishu.
For Uasin Gishu, he proposed strengthening its position as an agricultural and industrial hub through investment in maize and dairy value chains, the establishment of agro-processing industries, and support for small and medium enterprises.
He said the county’s strong foundation in farming and enterprise can be leveraged to create jobs, boost incomes, and drive manufacturing growth.
Owalo also emphasized improved infrastructure, access to markets, and support for youth and women-led businesses in the region.
He maintained that his track record in both the private and public sectors positions him as a transformative leader capable of addressing Kenya’s economic and governance challenges.
Owalo further promised to expand opportunities for young people through investments in the digital economy and nationwide connectivity, while also pushing for reforms in sports, education, and healthcare.
He supported the constitutional right to peaceful protests, proposing designated zones and a non-confrontational policing approach.
Owalo dismissed claims that he is backed by hidden political interests, saying his resignation demonstrates his independence, but added that he remains open to forming coalitions with like-minded leaders ahead of the 2027 elections.
by Kiptanui Cherono and Fredrick Maritim
