He accused the President of turning the idea into a political slogan rather than a serious development roadmap.

According to Njiru, successful economic models such as Singapore’s were built on disciplined planning, strong institutions, and long-term policy consistency. 

He questioned whether the Kenyan government is ready to make the difficult structural reforms required to achieve such a transformation.

“The idea of Singapore is being used more as a talking point than a policy objective,” Njiru suggested, warning that Kenyans should be cautious about promises that are not backed by measurable actions. 

He argued that without clear timelines, accountability, and institutional reforms, the vision risks remaining theoretical.

Njiru’s comments come amid growing political debate over the government’s development priorities. 

Critics have increasingly questioned whether the administration is focusing too much on grand international comparisons while unresolved domestic challenges continue to affect ordinary citizens.

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua recently echoed similar concerns, urging President Ruto to first deliver on key promises under the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda. 

Speaking during a public event in Kiambu County earlier this month, Gachagua argued that basic services such as healthcare, cost of living relief, and social protection should take precedence over ambitious global comparisons.

Gachagua pointed to changes in the health sector as an example, calling for stability and reforms that directly benefit citizens before introducing new systems. 

He claimed that unmet promises have made Kenyans sceptical of new narratives about rapid economic transformation.

Political analysts say the growing criticism reflects wider public anxiety about the pace of reforms and rising economic pressure. 

While the government maintains that its long-term strategy includes infrastructure expansion, industrial growth, and investment in technology, sceptics argue that progress on the ground remains uneven.

President Ruto has defended his vision, insisting that Kenya must think boldly to compete globally. In recent months, his administration has rolled out initiatives such as the National Infrastructure Fund, aimed at mobilising trillions of shillings to support development projects across the country.

However, Njiru insists that ambition alone is not enough. He argues that without strong governance, transparency, and policy discipline, Kenya risks repeating past cycles of unfulfilled promises.