Re: Nothing works in Kenya, despite all the denials - CHECK OUT

I have been waiting for sincere responses to Elisha's plainly outlined challenge but 'wapi'.

The issues he raised represent the discontent of some Kenyans who on December 30, 2002, witnessed their new president make a constitutionally mandated promise to the effect that:

  "... I will faithfully and diligently discharge my 
  duties and perform my functions in the high office 
  of President of the Republic of Kenya, and that I 
  will do right to all manner of people, according to
  the laws and customs of the Republic, without fear
  or favour, affection or ill will..." (Presidential 
  Oath of Office as expressly stated in Cap. 100)

Kibaki's inauguration was viewed by many as the start of a revolution. Now that these hopes are threatened or seem so far away, Kenyans have every right to demand answers, from the president, as to why they must live with barbaric beheadings, unparalleled cronyism and runaway corruption, etc.

Since we all agree that Kibaki willingly applied to be the principle custodian of the Nation's wellness, we must also agree that discussing his performance appraisal - especially the shortcomings outlined by Elisha - is both politically and legally necessary.

Yes, some positive strides have been made by this Government, but it is disturbing that even these minimal achievements mostly seem to be the result of pro-reform forces, both within and without the administration, and not because of sincere initiatives from the top leadership.

I strongly believe that after years of apathy, even as hundreds were economically marginalized and/or politically victimized, Kenyans can no longer afford to be silent witnesses. Kibaki cannot continue to benefit from comparisons with the mediocrity of past regimes as this is a threat to genuine change. The political standard for this leadership are the pre-election pledges, some well outlined by Elisha. As for legal standards, one need look no further than express wording of the Presidential Oath of Office.

- Simon Agwanda Owuor
Kisumu Democracy Institute (KIDI)