The Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC) has released a report criticizing the Hustler Fund, describing it as structurally flawed, economically unsound, and politically motivated. The report highlights that the fund has failed to meet its financial inclusion goals, with a loan default rate of approximately 68-71%, leading to substantial losses of taxpayer money. KHRC calls for the scrapping of the fund and suggests redirecting resources to more sustainable development programs. In response, President William Ruto and Kenya Kwanza coalition leaders have strongly defended the Hustler Fund, asserting it has benefited 26 million Kenyans with over 72 billion Kenyan shillings disbursed and an 83.3% loan recovery rate. Ruto dismissed the KHRC report as politically motivated and labeled critics as "merchants of doom." The president also defended Kenya's growing ties with China, emphasizing the lifting of tariffs on key Kenyan exports such as tea, coffee, and avocado, and stated that the relationship is in Kenya's best interest. This stance has prompted the U.S. Congress to review Kenya's Major Non-NATO Ally (MNNA) status, a designation granted less than two years ago. Some Kenyan officials, including Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, have expressed support for the U.S. probe, while others caution against interpreting the review as a sign of Kenya being a failed state. The review is reportedly linked to concerns over Kenya's diplomatic alignment and President Ruto's connections with entities such as Sudan's Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Despite the diplomatic tensions, Ruto insists Kenya will continue to deepen cooperation with China. The ongoing debate reflects broader geopolitical shifts and domestic political contestation over the future of the Hustler Fund and Kenya's international alliances.