The Institute for Social Accountability (TISA) has launched a new report titled Living Accountability, which explores the cultural roots of governance and social accountability in Kenya.
Speaking during the launch, TISA Executive Director Diana Gichengo emphasized that the study builds on previous research conducted by the organization, including a 2017 study done in partnership with the Embassy of Denmark in Kenya.
The report examines how different governance systems—capitalist and communist—approach accountability, highlighting Kenya’s unique historical and cultural practices of social accountability.
Gichengo noted that Kenyans have always had traditional ways of holding leaders accountable, citing historical movements such as the Mau Mau uprising and the activism of Mekatilili wa Menza.
According to the study, social accountability thrives under a listening and caring government but becomes confrontational when leaders fail to engage the public. The research, conducted over a year, involved data collection from 13 counties and targeted various groups, including traders in Nairobi and farmers in Vihiga. It revealed that younger Kenyans, particularly those aged 25-35, are becoming increasingly engaged in governance matters.
TISA’s Head of Programmes, Alexander Muriithi, highlighted that the study reinforces the importance of national values, integrity, and civic education in strengthening governance. “Without integrity, there is no transparency or accountability,” he said.
The report also emphasizes that social accountability directly affects economic empowerment, as poor governance leads to mismanagement of public funds, ultimately impacting job opportunities and service delivery.The study urges Kenyans to take charge of policy-making and push for ethical leadership.
Gichengo called on citizens to hold leaders accountable beyond elections and to ensure that governance aligns with public interests. She also warned the government that accountability movements, like recent Gen Z-led protests, will continue to emerge if governance failures persist.
TISA plans to distribute the report to policymakers, including the Auditor General’s office, with the hope that its findings will influence governance reforms and enhance electoral transparency in Kenya.
