In an exclusive interview with Enock Sikolia of The Kenyan Historian, Dagoretti North Member of Parliament Beatrice Elachi shared her thoughts on the pressing issues facing Kenyans, reflecting on a turbulent 2024 and offering insights into the way forward.

Challenges and Resilience

Reflecting on what has been a difficult year, Elachi acknowledged the struggles endured by many but struck an optimistic tone, urging Kenyans to remain determined and hard-working.

“Those who will be on the right track, with the right spirit, who believe, trust, and know that it’s about determination and working hard—they will find it better,” she noted.

When asked about priorities for the country’s leaders, from the president to governors, Elachi stressed the critical importance of addressing food security. 

“Let’s first take care of food security. Food is dignity to everyone. Having food reduces other challenges,” she stated, emphasizing that the high cost of food remains a significant barrier for many Kenyans.

Her remarks highlighted a growing concern over the rising cost of living and the urgent need to ensure that basic needs, such as access to affordable food, are met. 

For Elachi, securing food for every Kenyan is a foundational step toward tackling broader socio-economic challenges.

Protests and AI images of the President

Addressing the protests of 2024 and the controversial AI-generated images depicting the President in a coffin, Elachi called for restraint, urging citizens to find constructive ways to express their frustrations. 

“You can be angered in 2025, but you don’t need to put your president in a coffin,” she said, emphasizing that such actions are inappropriate.

On the matter of AI images, Elachi advocated for legislative action to protect individuals’ rights. 

“The best thing we can do now is to amend the Cyber Act. If you want to use my image, then I must put my consent first. If not, then I have the right to take you to court,” she said, urging lawmakers to take proactive steps in regulating digital ethics.

Abductions and Justice

Elachi also condemned the abduction of social media influencers and protestors, which has been a troubling response to dissent. 

When asked if such extreme actions are justified by provocative acts like the coffin imagery, she was unequivocal. 

“It does not. What the police are doing is wrong. When something is wrong, get the person and let them stand trial. Abductions do not help young people understand it is wrong,” she stated.

She called on law enforcement to uphold justice through lawful processes and avoid actions that undermine the trust of young Kenyans in the system.

The role of leaders

Elachi urged her fellow MPs to reflect on their roles and responsibilities. “MPs should make an action of what you have seen and don’t always answer everything that passes you,” she advised, emphasizing the importance of leadership rooted in accountability and meaningful action.

Critiquing the government

On the contentious issue of individuals “disappearing” after critiquing the government, Elachi strongly defended the right to free expression. 

“A person does not need to ‘disappear.’ Instead, they have the right to critique and offer solutions,” she stated, calling for a culture of open dialogue and mutual respect between the government and its citizens.