Presidential Aspirant Dr. Reuben Kigame Calls for a National “Diagnosis and Healing” as He Pushes for Integrity, Inclusion, and Social Renewal

 

Presidential aspirant Dr. Reuben Kigame has called on Kenyans to undertake a deep and honest reflection on the state of the country, urging citizens and leaders alike to confront national challenges with the same seriousness a doctor approaches a critically ill patient. Speaking during a high-level public dialogue on governance, social justice, and national values, Dr. Kigame urged the nation to abandon denial and embrace truth-driven reforms that will reignite Kenya’s moral and economic revival.

Renowned for his influential gospel music career, powerful advocacy for disability rights, and strong voice in political reform, Dr. Kigame delivered a stirring message anchored on integrity, justice, and inclusion—principles he describes as the foundation of a healthy, stable society. He challenged the nation to acknowledge the “symptoms” of ailing institutions and take bold steps toward meaningful healing.

“I’d like to look at the state of the nation the way one looks at a patient in a hospital,” Dr. Kigame said.
“You cannot heal a patient by pretending they are well. Kenya needs honesty, accurate diagnosis, and committed treatment. Only then can we begin our journey to recovery.”

Dr. Kigame identified corruption, systemic inequality, rising cost of living, political intolerance, and the marginalization of vulnerable populations as core issues that continue to weaken Kenya’s social fabric. He emphasized that without moral leadership and deep structural reforms, the nation risks further decline.

As a respected advocate for the rights of persons with disabilities, Dr. Kigame used the platform to highlight persistent barriers that millions still face daily—limited access to education, technology, employment, transportation, and political representation. His remarks were shaped by his own life story: losing his sight at the age of three and rising to become one of Kenya’s most accomplished musicians, authors, educators, and activists.

“Inclusion cannot be an afterthought. It must be at the centre of our nationhood,” he insisted.
“A society that sidelines people with disabilities is a society that ignores its own conscience.”

Dr. Kigame praised ongoing efforts by civil society and disability movements but emphasized the need for stronger government resolve, calling for accessible infrastructure across all counties, inclusive digital platforms, and enforcement of disability laws that remain largely unimplemented.

Turning to governance, the presidential hopeful called for a new era of servant leadership—a value he has consistently championed even during his 2022 presidential bid. He urged Kenyans to reject leaders who enrich themselves at the expense of the public and instead support leaders committed to truth, transparency, and human dignity.

“We must remove the culture that normalizes corruption and reward leaders who listen, who serve, who sacrifice, and who put Kenya first,” he said.

Dr. Kigame also spoke on national cohesion, stressing the need for Kenya to move past divisive politics and build a nation where every community feels valued and protected. He urged the youth—who make up the majority of Kenya’s population—to take ownership of the country’s future and demand accountability from leaders at every level.

Attendees at the dialogue praised Dr. Kigame’s heartfelt and thought-provoking address, describing him as a leader who speaks with conviction grounded in lived experience rather than political convenience. Many expressed admiration for his unwavering commitment to justice and his vision of a compassionate, inclusive, and morally grounded Kenya.

As he continues to shape his presidential platform, Dr. Kigame says he will remain focused on diagnosing Kenya’s problems honestly, treating them courageously, and healing the nation collectively.“Kenya can heal. Kenya can thrive again. But we must tell ourselves the truth and work together to build the country we deserve,” he concluded.

Dr. Kigame’s message adds fresh momentum to ongoing national conversations around leadership renewal, social inclusion, and building a more equitable and hopeful Kenya for all.