By Afrireport 
The government is facing mounting criticism over what political leaders, civil society groups and sections of the public describe as deliberate delays in implementing key recommendations of the National Dialogue Committee (NADCO).
Raising fresh questions about its commitment to political reforms and national cohesion.
NADCO was established in the wake of the 2023 nationwide protests to address contentious political, electoral and governance issues that had polarised the country.
The bipartisan committee, comprising members from both government and opposition, submitted a raft of recommendations aimed at easing political tensions, strengthening institutions and restoring public confidence in leadership.
However, months after the report was handed over, critics argue that little tangible progress has been made.
Opposition figures say the government has selectively embraced recommendations that serve its interests while dragging its feet on reforms that require legislative action or threaten the status quo.
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Among the most contested proposals are electoral reforms, cost of living interventions, reconstitution of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), and measures to curb the rising cost of governance.
These issues were central to the dialogue process and were expected to be prioritised as a confidence building gesture.
We did not enter dialogue for public relations. Kenyans expected action, not excuses,” one opposition leader said, accusing the government of using NADCO to buy time and cool political pressure without addressing the root causes of unrest.
Civil society organisations have echoed similar sentiments, warning that failure to implement the recommendations could reignite public anger.
They argue that dialogue without implementation risks becoming a hollow exercise that undermines future mediation efforts.
On its part, the government has defended itself, citing the complexity of some proposals and the need for legal and constitutional procedures.
Officials insist that implementation is ongoing and that some recommendations require broad consultations and parliamentary approval, which cannot be rushed.
“We remain committed to the NADCO roadmap, but reforms must follow due process,” a senior government official said, urging patience.
Political analysts note that the delay has revived mistrust between the ruling coalition and the opposition, threatening to reopen old political wounds.
They warn that prolonged inaction could erode the goodwill created by the dialogue and fuel perceptions of bad faith.
