President William Ruto’s recent remarks regarding living within our means as a nation, particularly in the context of the ongoing healthcare crisis and the demands of striking doctors have sparked much-needed debate.

It is encouraging to see the President finally addressing this critical issue, albeit amidst a prolonged standoff.

Ruto’s call for doctors to consider the government’s offer on intern deployment while emphasizing the nation’s financial constraints is a valid point. Indeed, in times of economic hardship, prudence and fiscal responsibility are paramount.

However, it raises questions about the government’s own spending practices.

While advocating for austerity measures, recent reports of extravagant expenditures by government entities, such as the exorbitant costs of umbrellas and luxury items, undermine the credibility of such calls.

It is essential for the government to lead by example and demonstrate a genuine commitment to living within its means before expecting citizens to do the same.

Is this call genuine when discussions persist about hiring of over 50 Chief Administrative Secretaries, which are unnecessary?

Is it justifiable to demand belt-tightening from Kenyans while government officials engage in unnecessary foreign travels with bloated entourages, often including their relatives? Is it right to expect doctors to make concessions while cabinet secretaries splurge millions in public?

Proposed budget cuts and discussions on addressing the government’s bloated wage bill are steps in the right direction. However, these measures must be part of a comprehensive and inclusive approach involving all stakeholders, not just reactive responses to crises like the healthcare strike.

Mr. President, we hear you, but we also humbly ask that you to listen to us. If your rallying call is for us to live within our means, then let all Kenyans do it, starting with your esteemed office. Let us not confine that call to doctors only.