The announcement by President Kibaki that cabinet minister Charity Ngilu had been ‘relieved of her duties’ ostensibly for throwing her weight behind ODM presidential candidate speaks volumes about misuse of executive power by successive Heads of State in Kenya. It reminds Kenyans of the circus that occurred in KANU during the last months of President Moi’s rule where cabinet ministers and vice president were sacked and replaced because they failed to endorse Moi’s choice of successor after his retirement. Moi’s actions then led to the formation of the Rainbow Alliance and eventually the NARC coalition that defeated Uhuru Kenyatta with Mwai Kibaki as its candidate. Could history be repeating itself? It definitely is.
The sacking was relayed to newsrooms from State House Nakuru, about an hour after the huge ODM rally. The statement was silent on the fate of other GNU defectors still serving in Cabinet like Dr. Enoch Kibunguchi and Samuel Moroto – who are both assistant ministers for health and education respectively.
I consider the sacking of Mrs. Ngilu as ill advised and that which may have been instigated by one of those many individuals accompanying the president in Nakuru and arrogating themselves presidential political advisors. Considering Mrs. Ngilu was a major and founder player in the formation of NAK and NARC coalitions and was in cabinet by right, her sacking is bound to be counter productive in this election year because it is in actual sense a heavy slap in the face of the large women constituency, and a big betrayal of the NARC dream that many Kenyans held dear in 2002. The thunderous welcome that Ngilu was accorded at ODM’s rally at Uhuru Park last Saturday and demands for her to address the crown showed that Kenyan’s still consider this lady a major political force nationally. That begs the question: Is the sacking of Mrs. Ngilu bound to add or subtract votes for
the president?
If the president was a man who respects democracy and is keen on building his statesman credentials, then he could have simply ignored Mrs. Ngilu who, like all of us, retains the democratic freedom to back the candidate of her choice. In any case, she did clearly explain her reasons for backing Raila with valid points.
With Martha Karua the only woman remaining in cabinet, it is certain that Kibaki will use the vacant health ministry to make an appointment that will be intended to woo a community into his fragile coalition. My hunch is that the President’s choice will be a woman and he may choose to re-appoint Mrs. Linah Kilimo to appease voters in Rift Valley, or promote Dr. Naomi Shabaan – who was subject of controversial remarks against the US Ambassador – to woo voters from the coast. It is unlikely that Beth Mugo, Wangari Maathai or Betty Tett will be considered as replacements for Mrs. Ngilu by the mere fact they are from the Presidents own ethnic community.
As if Ngilu’s support for Raila is not enough headache for PNU, three separate opinion polls commissioned by the Nation media Group this week and relased today show that Raila is increasing his lead over Kibaki and Kalonzo. Word on the street in Nairobi indicate that NSIS, which has too many leakages in recent days, have placed Raila’s lead at between 60% - 64%, while Kibaki is at 29% and Kalonzo at 5%. If these polls are anything to go by, then it seems these general elections will be a matter of formality as far as the presidential seat is concerned and Raila Odinga is already being touted as the fourth president of Kenya.
Sunday, October 07, 2007
What Does an ODM Government Hold for Kenya?
Wananchi admire the custom-made bus - aptly named PENTAGON 1 - featuring an open top and branded with party colours, that ODM luminaries rode on into Uhuru Park. Although the government recently quietly imported a fleet of Mercedes Benz limousines that are intended for use next term by the president, the ODM are leading by example. The bus was fabricated at a local leading motor vehicle dealer, and was used for a road show in the early hours of Saturday.The Thunder Rally - Uhuru Park 6th October 2007
The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) and its presidential candidate made a solemn vow to give Kenyans real and complete change as the party officially a kicked off its presidential campaign.
In a memorandum read by William Ruto, in front of a crowd estimated at 400,000, four main issues would form the basis of an ODM administration:
a) Economic re-generation and reconstruction (not economic recovery)
It seems the current government is contented with a 6% annual economic recovery hence its campaign based on continuity.
The ODM has a sound plan towards achieving double digit annual growth. Massive resources will be injected into the development of infrastructure. Modern road and rail network, efficient port facilities, affordable low cost housing, reduced energy costs and cheap access to information are some of the areas that an ODM government will embark on immediately it assumes power.
b) Devolution and equitable distribution of national resources through the enactment of the Bomas Constitution Draft
Speaker after speaker at the rally talked of sustained marginalisation of certain areas in Kenya and a an unfair resource distribution over the last fourty years. The ODM recognises that only a devloved constitution will bring control of resources to the hands of the people. The proposed devolution of power is not aimed at disenfranchsing sections of the Kenyan society as one Daniel Arap Moi wants us to believe.
c) Zero tolerance to corruption
As has been said before, corruption robs the country of its enormous resources while choking its potential. Corruption is not only immoral, but is also the main cause of endemic poverty and gross inequality in Kenya. The ODM will simply not tolerate corruption in public offices. Anti corruption institutions will be strengthened and provided with necessary powers so as to effectively impede this vice.
d) Improvement of education and accelleration of fight against poverty.
The ODM will improve the provision of free basic education and extend the service to free secondary education. The ODM will promote Public/Private Sector Partnership (PPP) initiatives and private businesses will be supported through elimination of government bureaucracy and review of taxes. The ODM will set aside designated areas for hawkers and other small business.
The event was broadcast live by all major media houses in Kenya.
I just cannot wait for this government to take over.
Saturday, October 06, 2007
The Most Important Article Published In The Standard This Year
Many thanks to Proud Kikuyu Woman for drawing our attention to this fascinating article in today's East African Standard.
Leaving the professional nest for political train
By Saturday Standard Team
Until early this year, Mr Edwin Mwangi Macharia led a quiet life as an executive with the Bill Clinton Foundation.
His latest posting was as a director of the Rural Initiative for the Clinton HIV/Aids Initiative (Chai). The initiative was to develop and enable the replication of care and treatment services in rural areas.
He had served as the deputy country director for the same foundation in Tanzania where he helped develop a national care and treatment plan.
Macharia was also a member of the team that developed a similar treatment and care plan for South Africa. This is a major feat for a man who turns 30, later this year.
Macharia has now plunged into politics and faces a gigantic task as he seeks to unseat Dr Chris Murungaru as MP for Kieni constituency.
He is among a stream of young or middle-aged, highly educated and well-trained professionals leaving their careers to join politics.
Read more
Raila Odinga secretly met John Githongo in London last month
Guess what John Githongo's nickname was when he worked at State House
Friday, October 05, 2007
Defection Watch: Ngilu Goes Oranges
The soaring political heat this week has climaxed with Hon Charity Ngilu endorsing Raila Odinga’s presidential bid on ODM ticket. Her timing and manner or deliver reflected everything characteristic of Kenya’s first woman presidential candidate. She was scathing, direct, confrontational and daring.
Hear her speak: "The ghost of the Moi era has returned to haunt us. This is contrary to the expectations and mandate we were given in 2002.’’ But defection was all coming to pass. The news however rests in the perceived coup to the incumbent. She may not be bringing substantial numerical (read voters) to ODM but the effect of having a cabinet minister defect to the opposition is a massive psychological dent or boost depending on which horse you ride.
Ngilu gave ODM more ammunition by repeating the often-denied line that the Narc Government has not achieved its dream of good governance. Instead it is characterised by all negative sms: tribalism, nepotism and cronyism. In painting Kibaki’s regime as opaque, Ngilu dives into her own defence in reminding all and sundry that she remained the only member of the Narc dream still standing and adding that apart from the natural departures, most of the other players have abandoned ship.
Give it to her. Whoever crafted Ngilu's speech must have had Narc's (and by extension Kenyans dream) eulogy in mind. In reminding us that of the theme song of Yote Yawezekana was a call to national renewal and hope that turned to be a hope betrayed and a dream deferred, no epitaph would have been any better.
So by mama Rainbow choosing to abandon reigning ship to take refuge in a rescue boat, are we poised to witness more high drama these coming weeks after parliament is dissolved? I have no answer except to train my eyes singularly on the unfolding drama and enjoy every bit of it. The truth is like her hate her Ngilu has in her what many Kenyan women don’t have. To deny her that fact benefit is to engage in self deception. Na bado as the political temperature soars to shame Sahara.
Raila Odinga secretly met John Githongo in London last month
Guess what John Githongo's nickname was when he worked at State House
Hear her speak: "The ghost of the Moi era has returned to haunt us. This is contrary to the expectations and mandate we were given in 2002.’’ But defection was all coming to pass. The news however rests in the perceived coup to the incumbent. She may not be bringing substantial numerical (read voters) to ODM but the effect of having a cabinet minister defect to the opposition is a massive psychological dent or boost depending on which horse you ride.
Ngilu gave ODM more ammunition by repeating the often-denied line that the Narc Government has not achieved its dream of good governance. Instead it is characterised by all negative sms: tribalism, nepotism and cronyism. In painting Kibaki’s regime as opaque, Ngilu dives into her own defence in reminding all and sundry that she remained the only member of the Narc dream still standing and adding that apart from the natural departures, most of the other players have abandoned ship.
Give it to her. Whoever crafted Ngilu's speech must have had Narc's (and by extension Kenyans dream) eulogy in mind. In reminding us that of the theme song of Yote Yawezekana was a call to national renewal and hope that turned to be a hope betrayed and a dream deferred, no epitaph would have been any better.
So by mama Rainbow choosing to abandon reigning ship to take refuge in a rescue boat, are we poised to witness more high drama these coming weeks after parliament is dissolved? I have no answer except to train my eyes singularly on the unfolding drama and enjoy every bit of it. The truth is like her hate her Ngilu has in her what many Kenyan women don’t have. To deny her that fact benefit is to engage in self deception. Na bado as the political temperature soars to shame Sahara.
Raila Odinga secretly met John Githongo in London last month
Guess what John Githongo's nickname was when he worked at State House
Raila's Meeting With John Githongo
Sources close to former Ethics PS confirm that the meeting took place recently
As the country hurtles towards the general elections in a couple of weeks, Kumekucha can now authoritatively report that high drama has been unfolding behind the scenes.
My trail of this amazing story started with a hot tip from a trusted source in London that ODM presidential candidate Raila Odinga had a meeting with former ethics PS John Githongo in that British capital very recently. Impeccable sources close to Githongo not only confirmed that such a meeting actually took place, but they added a number of sizzling riders;
- That the former ethics PS is intrigued by the seven point governance agenda...
Read more
Secretly Investigate Unfaithful cheating spouse in Kenya
Why Exactly Did Kibaki Government Officials Nickname Githongo, Mujaruo?
Another piece of interesting information that emerged in the course of research for my other post, from my impeccable sources close to former ethics PS John Githongo is the nickname that he earned from colleagues deep in the Kibaki administration from April 2004.
They called him Mujaruo which is an obnoxious reference terming him a member of the Luo tribe. Githongo is actually a pure Kikuyu but it is clear what irritated and provoked his colleagues to give him such a nickname was the fact that he was more Kenyan than Kikuyu at heart. In other words instead of "eating" with his fellow tribesmate and enriching himself, Githongo chose to question and probe and generally do his job as a true Kenya patriot. In this case this appears to have been seen as extreme betrayal by his fellow tribesmen hence the sarcastic nickname; Mujaruo.
Read more
Secretly Investigate Unfaithful cheating spouse in Kenya
Thursday, October 04, 2007
Is the Anglo-Leasing Scam Dead and Buried?
‘The scale of the public outrage that has been created is so great I don’t think it will die,’ John Githongo – December 2006, referring to the Anglo-Leasing Scam
President Mwai Kibaki, currently campaigning for a second five-year term, won an election five years ago by a landslide on the basis of an anti-corruption ticket. He made the bold move of appointing the country’s head of Transparency International as his anti-corruption tsar and included him as part of the Government. His name – John Githongo.
President Mwai Kibaki, currently campaigning for a second five-year term, won an election five years ago by a landslide on the basis of an anti-corruption ticket. He made the bold move of appointing the country’s head of Transparency International as his anti-corruption tsar and included him as part of the Government. His name – John Githongo.
A journalist by profession, John Githongo was first introduced to anti-corruption work by his father who was one of the founders of the Kenyan chapter of Transparency International.
But in his high-prestige post in the new Kibaki government Githongo junior committed the ultimate sin: he was just too good at his job. He uncovered a $200 million scam that ultimately led to the heart of government itself.
It began when John Githongo received information that prompted him to investigate a contract with a company called Anglo Leasing and Finance to provide the Immigration Department with a new tamper-proof passport system. A commitment fee had been paid but no work appeared to have been done. Furthermore, no one who should have known seemed to know exactly what Anglo Leasing was.
He investigated further and, almost miraculously, the money paid out to Anglo Leasing started coming back. Not just a trickle either – it poured. Obese cheques – one for 4.7 million dollars – arrived at the Kenya Central Bank.
‘I have to admit, I got carried away. I thought: wow... here is somebody returning all this cash and not suing us. If someone is forced to pay back half a billion shillings on a contract, they have to be out of pocket in a big way and should go to court. Now this is the real business... this is the real fight against corruption... this is half a billion which can now perhaps be spent on something more worthwhile. Recovery of money on this scale had never happened before.’
But, he recalls with a wry smile, ‘my colleagues did not share my enthusiasm. No celebratory atmosphere developed. No champagne bottles were popped. There was something odd...’
Senior officials told him to back off now. The Anglo Leasing sandal was not a scandal, he was told, as the money had been repaid.
But he did not follow their advice. He carried on and found that there were other Anglo Leasing type companies and contracts for various projects – a forensic laboratory for the police, ships for the navy, a telecommunications system.
The pressure on him to ‘take a back seat’ from the investigation became more intense.
He was determined to find out who was behind this massive network of scams so that they could be prosecuted. A combination of naivety and optimism kept him going, says Githongo. ‘I had no idea my inquiries would reach so high.’
Githongo kept his boss, the President, informed at each stage of his investigation. Finally, though, his position became impossible. He received warnings from friends. People in high office wanted him dead. He escaped to
In January 2006 he issued a damning dossier which implicated and named four high-ranking Kenyan government officials in corruption on a massive scale: David Mwiraria, finance minister; Kiraitu Murungi, energy minister; Vice-President Moody Awori; and Chris Murungaru, former national security minister. The main purpose of the corruption, the dossier alleged, was to raise party funds with which to fight elections by siphoning off government money into non-existent companies.
Since the report was published three of the ministers concerned were fired from the cabinet and Kibaki’s fragile Rainbow Coalition has collapsed. Two of the fired ministers have since been re-appointed but interestingly there have been no high-level prosecutions to date and the accused ministers continue to deny wrong-doing.
John Githongo thinks there are some people in government who still support him and his anti-corruption drive but they are ‘not a critical mass’. As he says: ‘The fact that I am here [in
The Government has made other attempts to put the lid on the scandal. The lead investigator in the Anglo Leasing Affair has been fired. Meanwhile Justice Aaron Ringera, head of the Kenya Anti-Corruption Commission, has been accused by Githongo and others of ‘shielding the culprits’ until after the 2008 general election.
Thousands of demonstrators have been taking to the streets of
John Githongo - ‘I KNEW TOO MUCH’
In a 91-page dossier addressed to his employer, His Excellency the President of
On 3 March 2004, my department was provided with information that suggested that a non-existent company called Anglo Leasing and Finance had been awarded a contract by the Immigration Department in the Ministry of Home Affairs and a three per cent down-payment of around $1.2 million had been paid.
On a trip to
14 May – Once I arrived home I received a telephone call from Ambassador Francis Muthaura. He informed me that Anglo Leasing had contacted him and assured him that they were going to repay the money, which he described as a great success.
17 May – Hon Kiraitu Murungi stepped into my office unannounced. He expressed concern about the way the Anglo Leasing investigation was going. He told me people were concerned whether I appreciated the political costs of my work. He told me it was hoped once Anglo Leasing paid back the money the investigation would stop.
Githongo receives a visit from an old friend of his father’s who also has friends in the cabinet:
His advice to me was to be particularly careful; there was no way senior ministers were not involved in the Anglo Leasing affair. He warned me that ‘Murungaru [the Interior Minister] would not let you destroy them, they will kill you first’. He also warned me quite logically that if the stability of the regime was threatened then the President would stop backing me.
25 May – Ambassador Francis Muthaura called me to question the legal authority of the KACC [
A couple of days later it is disclosed that Anglo Leasing has been paid for another project – a contract for a police forensic laboratory. Though no work has actually been done roughly $5 million has been paid, ministers having taken advantage of US terrorism-related fears to expand what was a small project into a ‘cash cow’. A letter is delivered to Githongo which confirms that the Central Bank of
I found this unsettling. We acknowledged, your Excellency, who the key players in the scams were. At that time, Sir, you advised me not to hand over... files to the Attorney General for prosecution just yet and to delay sending the Infotalent file to the KACC.
Meanwhile the press is calling for ministers to be sacked. Ambassador Muthaura makes an obfuscating statement in a press release that goes into bureaucratic detail of the forensic laboratories project. An angry Githongo goes to the President:
23 June – Your Excellency, you will remember I rushed down to your office in what I shall admit was an ill-advisedly emotional mood and warned that... this was actually lying to the Kenyan people.
There are other developments – and revelations:
29 June – I met with Hon Kiraitu [Murungi] at his office. Essentially he said that Anglo Leasing was ‘us’ – our people. He said that no matter what, he did not have what it took to countenance the arrest of Chris Murungara for corruption because they had ‘too much history’. He was blunt and emotional. He admitted that people like Murungara were key to the transactions of Anglo Leasing and even though he personally did not have the details the reason given to him was that the money was needed for political fundraising.
By this time the Anglo Leasing Affair has become a national and international scandal:
The diplomatic community led by British High Commissioner Edward Clay visited the President and spent two hours with him. The overwhelming donor support for me and my office caused me tremendous discomfort but I had to live with it. At this time, interestingly, I came under renewed pressure to issue a statement on Anglo Leasing – essentially one that would say ‘all was OK’. I refused – it was too ridiculous and I was convinced that Kenyans would laugh in my face.
Another mysterious payment is made to the Central Bank by one of the non-existent companies involved in security procurement for $910,000. It comes from Silverson Forensic, drawn on a bank in Liechenstein, Landsbank AG.
By 20 October the list of suspect contracts by fictitious companies grew by the day and the cast of characters was the same. In my estimation we were sitting on roughly $700 million worth of contracts – some of them highly dubious. If one brought in the even murkier and more secret military ones, then the figure was over $1 billion. From what I had been told by some of the perpetrators themselves and as His Excellency the President acknowledged to me on several occasions – we had a major graft problem and it was being perpetrated by characters within our administration... I met with Simeon Nyachae and he explained that Hon Murungaru was involved in raising five billion shillings for the next election through these schemes.
Githongo meets with Justice Aaron Ringera, head of the KACC:
8 November – His analysis was grim and he admitted that once graft reaches the President he won’t touch it. He observed that I was now a prisoner in my job because I knew too much. I was surprised when he told me that if I tried to leave ‘they’ could even try to kill me.
Evan Mwai, a government auditor, tells Githongo he fears for his own personal safety because of the information he is uncovering about the ‘security financing companies’ . Githongo concludes that:
The modus was clear: the Government of
The reports and findings by the Controller and Auditor General conclude that there are several Anglo Leasing type deals in excess of $200 million. But still ministers are pressurizing the auditor to authorize dubious payments. Githongo urges him not to.
14 January – Hon Kiraitu Murungi came to my office and pointed to me and said that party elections were around the corner and I was the one holding up the financing of these elections.
Bizarre and disturbing conversations take place with Kiraitu Murungi and Chris Murungaru during which they openly admit to Githongo that the suspect contracts were all along schemes to raise political finance. They infer that he is undermining the Party.
I played possum saying I was keen not to undermine the Party. But it was a final call – after this I calculated they had few or no options left. They have bared their souls to me. By coming to me knowing full well I had direct access to the President meant they were not at all worried that I would report them to the President. Hon Murungara pointed out that the President had once been Minister of Finance and he understood how these things are done.
At that point Githongo realized he had to get out of
Kumekucha's Strange Behavior
Have you noticed that Kumekucha has been making very few posts lately? This strange and unusual trait has culminated in today where he has not posted anything except this strange brief articles asking lots of questions. He’s even failed to publish the Kenya Betrayed serialization (he says it will continue tomorrow).
That busy, huh?
Has he been bought or is he just busy? And if he’s busy what story is he working on? Could it be something very big that will soon be published here? Well, the guy has a track record of sorts. He’s broken some pretty big stories here before.
Could tomorrow be the day when we start to find out what Kumekucha has been up to?
To be honest I can’t wait to find out, can you?
What are chances of Charity Ngilu defecting to ODM?
Mrs.Charity Ngilu is one of the best women politicians in Kenya; she has been in the forefront of fighting for democracy in Kenya and was part of the team that removed Kanu from power after 24 years. She is regarded as a role model for upcoming women politicians in Kenya being the first woman presidential candidate in Kenyan history.
She is the Chairperson of Narc the party that removed Kanu from power in 2002 and refused to give it up to Dr. Noah Wekesa’s group, who wanted to take it from her, revive it probably to be used by the president again. It was said she is walking around with Narc in her handbag, they gave up decided to leave it with her and moved on to PNU.
Mama Rainbow, may be she should now be referred to as Mama Machungwa (orange), has openly supported ODM presidential candidate Mr. Raila Odinga and urged people to vote for Mr. Raila, she has tried to convince ODM-K presidential candidate Mr. Kalonzo to mend ways with Raila but it is not working.
Her defection to ODM to join Mr. Raila Odinga has been anticipated but it seems not forthcoming. I think its because of the dilemma she is in, being an MP from her home constituency in Eastern Province which is Mr. Kalonzo Musyoka’s strong hold, she has no choice but to support ODM-K to capture her seat back. Her people will hear nothing about Mr. Raila Odinga being better than their son Mr. Kalonzo Musyoka.
The political alignments and tribalism have put people like Mrs. Charity Ngilu with no option but so support people they do not want. On the other hand there is still time for her to make a choice. I read in the news this week that she has been promised a top post by ODM. She may decide to join ODM but will loose her MP seat to an opponent of ODM-K. Alternatively she can defect, loose her seat but get nominated by ODM next year.
Wednesday, October 03, 2007
Defection Watch: Sambu Dumps Narc-K for ODM
To expose the spirit of scoundrels who snap all our breath in sweat as they perfect expediency, we introduce a defection watch column to update readers of Kumekucha on the fluidity of Kenyan politics. And gracing the inaugural post is Alfred Sambu decamping from the party of flowers to squeeze the Orange juice.
For the records Sambu has been a Kibaki’s man since the DP on which he used to whip his Tachoni folks in attempt to dethrone Muskari Kombo. But that is not enough. Sambu’s move to ODM is a ripple on top deep running currents of realignment in the land of Ingo. With Kombo competing to outshine Uncle Moody he is poised to clinch PNU nomination bila sweat. Sambu knows better and as the late Whispers wont to say he is neither naïve nor stupid.
Over the gender fence, madame Orie Rogo-Manduli and Prof. Kamar (Biwott's other wife) have also trouped into ODM. But not so fast. These two maybe more of liabilities than assets. Their value to ODM may not be evaluated outright. Mark you politicians are scoundrels and they don't sleep easy while the 'enemey' is on a roll.
So are these sign of things to come in the next 70+ days? I don’t know but I have the luxury and patience to watch keenly.
For the records Sambu has been a Kibaki’s man since the DP on which he used to whip his Tachoni folks in attempt to dethrone Muskari Kombo. But that is not enough. Sambu’s move to ODM is a ripple on top deep running currents of realignment in the land of Ingo. With Kombo competing to outshine Uncle Moody he is poised to clinch PNU nomination bila sweat. Sambu knows better and as the late Whispers wont to say he is neither naïve nor stupid.
Over the gender fence, madame Orie Rogo-Manduli and Prof. Kamar (Biwott's other wife) have also trouped into ODM. But not so fast. These two maybe more of liabilities than assets. Their value to ODM may not be evaluated outright. Mark you politicians are scoundrels and they don't sleep easy while the 'enemey' is on a roll.
So are these sign of things to come in the next 70+ days? I don’t know but I have the luxury and patience to watch keenly.
Football Horses that Never Run
The English Premier league is popular the world over thanks to the media blizz. That English football is more talked about than any of its competitor cannot be gainsaid. But a closer look at the game’s dynamics reveals a cleverly-crafted scheme to create heat and media hyperbole from a mute showcase.
Nothing could be further from the truth. British's (read English) appetite to dominate the world in anyway possible remains insatiable. Picture this: Rooney scores a goal from sheer luck and what you read from the headlines next day is no reflection of what you watched either on the pitch or TV. All English footballers are celebrities fulltime. Beckham is threatening his ex-singer wife Victoria and the so-called WAGs (wives and girlfriends) of players even shamelessly apportion themselves fame by association (read sleeping).
Meanwhile the real pitch heroes who 'unfortunately' happen not to be English fade in the limelight of western press. How somebody classifies Rooney together with Gattusso as the world’s most lethal strikers is a dry joke than should be exclusively told by Lucifer welcoming his clients to hell.
Granted, England is home to clubs like Liverpool and Manchester United which are institutions in themselves and no amount of money can buy either history or legacy. But that does not take away the fact that Real Madrid is the world oldest and established club. Kenyans must have watched Brits keenly in backing their respective (political) horses despite all the nauseating warts.
The difference is that the British media hype at least operates within the parameters of civility unlike our naked hatred for fellow countrymen. Unlike football, our politics remains a bloody battle that spares no guns.
Nothing could be further from the truth. British's (read English) appetite to dominate the world in anyway possible remains insatiable. Picture this: Rooney scores a goal from sheer luck and what you read from the headlines next day is no reflection of what you watched either on the pitch or TV. All English footballers are celebrities fulltime. Beckham is threatening his ex-singer wife Victoria and the so-called WAGs (wives and girlfriends) of players even shamelessly apportion themselves fame by association (read sleeping).
Meanwhile the real pitch heroes who 'unfortunately' happen not to be English fade in the limelight of western press. How somebody classifies Rooney together with Gattusso as the world’s most lethal strikers is a dry joke than should be exclusively told by Lucifer welcoming his clients to hell.
Granted, England is home to clubs like Liverpool and Manchester United which are institutions in themselves and no amount of money can buy either history or legacy. But that does not take away the fact that Real Madrid is the world oldest and established club. Kenyans must have watched Brits keenly in backing their respective (political) horses despite all the nauseating warts.
The difference is that the British media hype at least operates within the parameters of civility unlike our naked hatred for fellow countrymen. Unlike football, our politics remains a bloody battle that spares no guns.
Elections 2007: The Kind Of Elections You Should Expect
As promised yesterday, I have agonized all night putting myself in the shoes of the incumbent and imagining that I was him seeing State House literally slip through my incumbent fingers before my very eyes as I watch.
By the way this is a very important exercise as it will give us all some very useful insights on what we should expect over the next few weeks leading up to the general elections.
The only thing that would have an outside chance of working would be to clandestinely look for a candidate to sponsor to erode the popularity of Raila and to take away as much votes as possible from the opposition side. This candidate would have to be chosen carefully because it is vital that they do not take any votes from the incumbent. This should not sound so far-fetched because there is nothing that a sizeable media and advertising budget cannot do to get just the right candidate very popular overnight. It would be preferable for that candidate to be young, the kind that would excite the millions of younger voters now firmly in the ODM ship. But of course chances of such a candidate winning would be nil, but remember that the objective would be to put a credible spoiler...
Read more
Kenya Betrayed
Chapter 1 - Part 3 - William Kivuvani (Special Branch)
These rumors about me reached such a level that the Special Branch had to intervene and I was asked to come to their office in Mombasa.
Here I met then William Kivuvani for the first time. He was at that time the Chief of Special Branch, Mombasa.. He was also related to Mary and Simon.
We agreed that I should not attend the functions at the Navy Base anymore since he was sure that then all these funny rumors would stop. I understood and accepted.
So Mary started instead to invite some of the American Commanders who had in the meantime also become friends on a private basis. I remember, we once even made a ‘picnic’ party at a drive-in cinema together with Mary’s children…..
During our meeting at his office, Kivuvani had also asked me about my personal background. I told him that I had dual Citizenship (Swiss and German). He was very interested to learn that I spoke besides German and English also French and Italian.
I regarded this ‘interrogation’ as part of his job and did not think much about it especially since I knew that he was not only a relative but also a trusted friend of Mary and Simon.
Kivuvani told me that he had been in charge on behalf of Special Branch to organize the transport of the body of the late President Kenyatta when he died on August 22, 1978, in Mombasa to be brought to Nairobi before his death was officially announced.
But the car broke down in the middle of the road and he had to call the Kenya Navy to send one of their ambulances. Here Simon Mbilu comes in: he was on duty that night and called by Kivuvani (his cousin).
So the body of Kenyatta was changed in the dark at the roadside from car to another and...
Read more
The Monster in Fear of the Unknown
The plot thickens and political tempo embraces fever pitch as we draw closer to 2007 polls. Ours is real theatre of the absurd politically speaking. Being no game and bereft of all rules, our politics has fallen to its record low. Yesterday’s sworn enemies are now bosom buddies rehearsing their scripts on how best to steal Kenyans’ votes under false and plastic promises albeit packaged in grandiose schemes.
When you see past known looters crafting new alliance with their successors, you know elections are nigh in Kenya. Fear of the unknown and a collective phobia sums it all. As we watch the political theatre, these two dinosaurs will continue holding the remote. We enjoy the actions oblivious of the fact that other interesting channels exist. Our national psyche is enslaved to the so-called tried and tested.
We Kenyans easily get intimidated with age. Some even shamelessly justify such shortcomings by quoting Wahenga who are just but waropokaji hiding under cluster of words (sayings) designed to suit every situation, often conflicting.
Emilio and Moi are now the best of friends like the embarrassment of December 2002 happened in outer space and Uhuru Park is the name of perfume made in Sacho. Make no mistake politics is about playing it selfish under the cover of hollow objectivity. While Baba Jimmy steers the ship to nostalgic waters, Baba Gidi dreads anything abstract or revolutionary. And that provides the hip at which these expired politicians get joined. Kenya's present tokenism economic growth amounts to schooled slavery to the past glory of 1970s as practiced by the present regime.
It will take our national resolve, collective revolutionary mind and heart to wean and win Kenyans out of tokenism and sectarian loyalties. Save for few exceptional CEOs, Kenya's economic glitterati owe all their ill-gotten wealth to politicians. That is why only politics and religion witnesses growth even in gloomy periods. The common thread in both practices is to make people's mind take leave of absence from the brain and instead engage full gear of emotions.
You close your eyes, speak in foreign tongues and shout amen at the drop of a hat. In the process your rumbling stomach is accusing you of being irrational to give out your Ksh. 100 to a gold-bedecked Muiru/Wanjiru. In the end you go back to the office full on air burgers, yawning and defrauding the govt/employer with your sub-optimal output.
Swap the preacher with the politicians and get the true picture. We are in for nasty times and only we can save ourselves, but can we and are we ready for the long haul? You guess right. Meanwhile the flames continue to consume Kenya. Who will save Kenya from her own vultures like the goons they hire to cheat us on hating each other?
Until we chose to think outside the box, we remain boxed and wrapped ready for shipping to political Siberia.
Where Does Your Vote Lie?
While walking down the street one day a Kenyan MP is tragically hit by a truck and dies. His soul arrives in heaven and is met by St. Peter at the entrance.
"Welcome to heaven," says St. Peter. "Before you settle in, it seems there is a problem. We seldom see a high official around these parts, you see, so we're not sure what to do with you."
"No problem, just let me in," says the MP.
"Well, I'd like to, but I have orders from the higher ups. What we'll do is have you spend one day in hell and one in heaven. Then you can choose where to spend eternity."
"Really, I've made up my mind. I want to be in heaven," says the MP.
"I'm sorry, but we have our rules." And with that, St. Peter escorts him to the elevator and he goes down, down, down to hell.
The doors open and he finds himself in the middle of a green golf course. In the distance is a clubhouse and s! tanding in front of it are all his friends and other politicians who had worked with him. Everyone is very happy and in evening dress. They run to greet him, shake his hand, and reminisce about the good times they had while getting rich at the expense of the people.
They play a friendly game of golf and then dine on lobster, caviar and champagne. Also present is the devil, who really is a very friendly guy who is having a good time dancing and telling jokes. They are all having such a good time that before the MP realizes it, it is time to go.
Everyone gives him a hearty farewell and waves while the elevator rises... The elevator goes up, up, up and the door reopens in heaven where St. Peter is waiting for him, "Now it's time to visit heaven."
So, 24 hours pass with the senator joining a group of contented souls moving from cloud to cloud, playing the harp and singing. They have a good time and, b! efore he realizes it, the 24 hours have gone by and St. Peter returns.
"Well, then, you've spent a day in hell and another in heaven. Now choose your eternity."
The M.P reflects for a minute, then he answers: "Well, I would never have said it before, I mean heaven has been delightful, but I think I would be better off in hell."
So St. Peter escorts him to the elevator and he goes down, down, down to hell.
Now the doors of the elevator open and he's in the middle of a barren land covered with waste and garbage. He sees all his friends, dressed in rags, picking up the trash and putting it in black bags as more trash falls from above.
The devil comes over to him and puts his arm around his shoulders.
"I don't understand," stammers the M.P. "Yesterday I was here and there was a golf course and clubhouse, and we ate lobster and caviar, drank champagne, and danced and had a great time. Now there's just a wasteland full of garbage and my friends look miserable. What happened?"
The devil smiles at him and says, "Yesterday we were campaigning...
...Today, you voted."
THINK Before you VOTE!!
Tuesday, October 02, 2007
You Cannot Judge A Politician By His Cover
With the type of politics we have in Kenya today and the politicians whose names feature prominently in playing that game, every Kenyan needs to become a bargain hunter of sorts, with that rare and special talent to be able to spot a rough diamond from just any odd rhombus-shaped stone or object lodged in the political landscape. Come December 2007, voters in our country must show that they have stopped taking comedians seriously and politicians as a joke
A true politician is one who will always be there when you need them and not vice versa. Colourful oratory or charismatic appeal is no substitute for lacking in substance and principles(especially integrity). We as voters know that every 5 years during election campaigns it is necessary for our politicians to fool us, and to be honest sometimes it tastes great to swallow morsels of well told lies like a new constitution in 100 days or 1 term presidency. But Kenya is not yet Utopia
However, what we can no longer live by are the worst lies which we make ourselves believe. "my MP does not represent my hopes, dreams and aspirations for my life, and his role is not an example i'm proud for my kids to model lakini nani hana makosa? " I hope the first 100 children who can say "mavi ya kuku" answers your question
You reading this. Yes you. do you know the price of that voter's card you have in your hand right now? Its value is not equivalent to nothing!Use it wisely! The true value of every Kenyan depends entirely on the quality of Bunge we will compare ourselves to when we wake up on the morning of January 1st 2008
We must never tire of walking down that weather-beaten and well-trodden path of reasoning, logic and sense As we approach December, keep the ruling faculty of your mind sound and do not let your vote degenerate into the equivalent of ethnic voting in the false name of kupiga kura kiasi.
vote PANU, vote ODM, vote ODM K, vote Kenya!
A true politician is one who will always be there when you need them and not vice versa. Colourful oratory or charismatic appeal is no substitute for lacking in substance and principles(especially integrity). We as voters know that every 5 years during election campaigns it is necessary for our politicians to fool us, and to be honest sometimes it tastes great to swallow morsels of well told lies like a new constitution in 100 days or 1 term presidency. But Kenya is not yet Utopia
However, what we can no longer live by are the worst lies which we make ourselves believe. "my MP does not represent my hopes, dreams and aspirations for my life, and his role is not an example i'm proud for my kids to model lakini nani hana makosa? " I hope the first 100 children who can say "mavi ya kuku" answers your question
You reading this. Yes you. do you know the price of that voter's card you have in your hand right now? Its value is not equivalent to nothing!Use it wisely! The true value of every Kenyan depends entirely on the quality of Bunge we will compare ourselves to when we wake up on the morning of January 1st 2008
We must never tire of walking down that weather-beaten and well-trodden path of reasoning, logic and sense As we approach December, keep the ruling faculty of your mind sound and do not let your vote degenerate into the equivalent of ethnic voting in the false name of kupiga kura kiasi.
vote PANU, vote ODM, vote ODM K, vote Kenya!
Will The Raila-Bashing Strategy Work For Kibaki?
The president’s campaign strategy has begun to take shape.
It is rather clear that it will involve a lot of Raila-bashing. The idea will be to put fear and anxiety in the hearts of voters on the dangers of a Raila presidency. The message is that he is not to be trusted with such an important seat and with so much power. The most likely thing that will happen, those handling the president’s campaign want to tell Kenyans, is that Raila will use the presidency to seek revenge and thus slide the country into chaos.
This strategy has many similarities to the strategy that was used by Karl Rove the legendary campaigner of President George Bush who against all odds got his man back to the White House in 2004 despite widespread discontent with the Bush handling of the Iraq war and other issues. It worked very well, especially when Osama Bin Laden released one of those video tapes of his right on cue, very shortly before Americans went to the polls. The message to American voters was simple; can you trust John Kerry to deal with Bin Laden and the war on terror? Bearing in mind that the events of 9/11 were still very fresh on the minds of many Americans many of them felt that their better option and the lesser evil was George Bush. That is one presidential election that political scientists will study and analyze for many years to come.
But back to Kenya. Can President Kibaki’s strategy work in closing the gap between himself and Raila Odinga in the presidential race? Can it give him victory?
My answer is that the president urgently needs a strategy if he is to win these elections. In other words the current approach will fall flat on its’ face.
Clearly it is the kind of strategy that has struck a chord with my dad who is over 70 and an ex-senior policeman. However how many voters do we have in Kenya of that age and background?
The other thing this strategy does not address is the Kikuyu back-lash caused by 5 years of arrogance and too many appointments from the house of Mumbi in a country that boasts of at least 42 tribes. The president’s strategists have tried to address this issue by placing full page advertisements in the press listing senior appointments in government and their tribes.
Again the president’s men have missed the point completely. In these matters perception counts much more than actual numbers. What do you expect when you appoint a Kikuyu as governor of the Central Bank denying a popular lady who has done an excellent job as acting governor? And that is just one example. Take for instance another highly visible appointment like that of director of CID which Kenyans have observed is always a tribal appointment. During Kibaki’s tenure two appointments have been made—both Kikuyu.
What I really wonder about is what else President Kibaki can talk about when he is not talking about that unnamed leader who has done nothing over the last 5 years. While it is true that both Raila and Kibaki are uninspiring speakers, the president is obviously in a very difficult position because his main opponent has a lot to talk about which will get many more Kenyans listening to him than to the president.
Right now things look rather bleak for the Kibaki camp according to all the reports and analysis I have in front of me, some of which I cannot even talk about here. I don’t see how the president’s campaign can be saved. Anyway, I will sleep over it and see if I can come up with a brilliant counter strategy for the Kibaki camp tomorrow.
ODM supporters I hear you and I can see you making faces. Please don’t throw barbs at me. I am after all like Taabu and Luke, still horseless and they say that this thing is a game don’t they? So let’s play.
Election Time Myths and Facts
Myth: "an idea or story that many people believe, but which is not true"
Fact: "a piece of information that is known to be true"
MYTH: An ODM government will result to Kenyans’ living standards being worse. ie "the same as those of residents of Kibera Slums in Langata constituency".
FACT: Of the approximately 33 million strong Kenyan population, only 43% (ie. 14.1 million persons) have access to adequate sanitation and only 61% (20 million persons) have access to clean water. Do the rest live in Kibera?
MYTH: By voting in an ODM government it would set a dangerous precedent and create an insecure/unstable living environment in Kenya!
FACT: Presently, Kenya has the highest number of internally displaced persons (IDPs) for a country not at war. 1.5% of the Kenyan population are IDPs. That is; nearly half a million people living as refugees in their own country. If truth be told, hundreds of thousands have died, thousands more lost their property and were scarred for life due to politically instigated violence. This social injustice continues to present time.
MYTH: The Kibaki regime has brought economic growth and Kenyans are generally happier than 5 years ago.
FACT: With a per capita income of about US$400, that is a little more than a dollar per day, Kenya is one of the poorest countries in Africa with widespread endemic poverty as well as gross inequalities. In actual fact, only less than 10% of the population (3.3 million persons) control national assets, while the remaining majority 90% (30 million persons) have been fighting double digit inflation for the last five years and are at a great disadvantage in terms of access to wealth, health, education and justice.
MYTH: The Kibaki regime has improved Kenyans’ general life styles and the population is healthier than it was previously.
FACT: Life expectancy for Kenyans has fallen from 58 years in 1986 to 48 years in 2006, and the cost of living has skyrocketed with Nairobi now ranking 107th costliest city globally in 2006, up from position 117th in 2005.
MYTH: That the Kibaki regime has improved infrastructure and infrastructure is generally efficient and well maintained.
FACT: Nearly 80% of Kenyans, comprising small scale farmers, traders and manufacturing enterprises rate road and rail services as ‘poor’, ‘very poor’ or ‘not available at all’. Dilapidated, congested or inadequate infrastructure (ie, roads, rail, telecoms, etc) affects the poverty stricken citizens most. That is; those who cannot fly or afford other means of communications. Poor Kenyans, (those living on less than a dollar per day) are 18 million persons, at last count.
MYTH: The current government has satisfactorily managed land distribution and there is absolutely no need to implement the Ndungu Land Commission Report recommendations as it will result to civil strife.
FACT: In Kenya, some 3600 large scale holdings control a staggering 780 million hectares of arable land (ie. each having an average 217,000 hectares) against a meagre average size of one hectare of land for each 3.5 million small holding peasant farmer. The rest of the population makes do with unfertile, arid and semi arid land.
MYTH: That the ODM is unpopular, cannot form government next term and it is does not offer a worthwhile alternative to the current government.
FACT: Recent opinion polls (Sept 2007) puts the ODM candidate ahead by nearly 10% of registered voters. That is nearly 1.4million votes. The same opinion polls rate ODM the most preferred party with more than half of registered voters supporting it.
MYTH: That the current regime has satisfactorily tackled corruption in public offices.
FACT: According to TI, Kenyans still rate 'corruption' as the number one problem in their country, followed by 'poverty' and 'unemployment'. Corruption remains a national problem and that which is directly responsible for promoting poverty and inequality, which is in turn breeding discontent and instability. Corruption is a real threat to democracy and uniform economic and social development.
Monday, October 01, 2007
Tribal Bigotry: Nazi Eugenics Kenyan Style
That Adolf Hitler epitomizes ethnic cleansing in recorded history is indisputable. But even to the Germans in whose name he fought and sought purity for, Hitler smeared them with blemish that will be carried forward by generation to come and probably into eternity. Most history students outside Germany and Israel marvel at the murderous heroics of Hitler oblivious of the irreparable damage he caused the human species. He is simply a case study of how ruinous the idd (animal) in us can be given a trace of chance.
But why all the rant about Hitler in this blog, you may ask? Well, the answer sits pretty in that very question. Our nation is undergoing that five-year painful and divisive ritual christened election. Painful because electioneering inflicts such obtuse emotional and personal harm to a majority of Kenyans than any other period in their lives. And divisive to an extent that even people whom one previously thought would have mellowed intellectually from exposure to other cultures and continents all over a sudden start spewing such acidic tribal vitriol without parallel.
An outsider visiting Kumekucha for the first time would imagine that its bloggers are permanently at war albeit without guns. God forbid prospects of inventing e-guns. The tone of posts in this blog have changed dramatically for the worse. The pretence to civility has vanished and the gloves are off. But the evil bit comes in comments dressed in ethnic gabs.
The earlier civilized and unwritten agreement to respect divergence in views has suddenly evaporated and in its place hatred and war mongering shamelessly taken residence. And where does this leave us as the future of Kenya and our motherland herself? At the risk of being branded a judge, I put it to readers here that we have been cleverly roped into tribal jingoism by our selfish politicians. We have perfected the art of being hate peddlers to unfathomable proportions. Consequently the scoundrels answering to the name of 'our leaders' must be laughing their heads off as we shadow box each other inside the maze they have weaved for us.
Politicians and polls come and go but the country is there to stay. With one finger we vilify Moi for perfecting ethnic division of Kenyans while what our own practice makes him look a saint. Until we resolve to rise about our cheap leaders and see the forest for the trees, we will continue riding our respective horses down a steep slope to oblivion. We must STOP and PRESS Kenya. She is bigger than any of us and until we accept that we all equally belong together, we are all engaging in nothing short of self-deception.
My dear country people, we must accept being biological accidents populating geographical accident (forget colonialism) called Kenya. Hitler thought of Aryan’s superiority and people are still paying the price almost a century later. Stop imagining that you are more Kenyan than your neighbour. Never mistake bigotry for superiority. We must not talk at each other but rather to each other. Support your candidate if you must but don’t transform political campaign into grandstanding and brinkmanship. It is unity in diversity, stupid. May the real Kenyans please stand up? God bless Kenya
Why Are The Diplomatic Corps So Worried About Election Violence?
Diplomacy is the art of lying creatively while maintaining a straight face.
Today all the major western power’s representative talked to the press about the looming mother of all general elections emphasizing that they were not backing any “horse”. Actually the diplomats addressed a number of issues, but the purpose of this post is to try and see through their diplomatic pronouncements to their real concerns and objectives on the ground.
Firstly all western powers share one deep concern—to ensure that Kenya remains peaceful. If anything were to happen to disturb the peace in Kenya a lot of their operations would be badly disrupted. For example did you know that Nairobi has an enviable reputation with donor organizations as one city in black Africa where you will find anything you need. This is in sharp contrast to many other African capitals where certain vital supplies have to be imported and this makes operations very difficult when moving relief food and other supplies to war torn or disaster areas on the continent.
But let’s get back to today’s press conference.
I predicted here over a year ago that this year’s general elections would be the most violent in history. My conclusions were based on...
Read on
Today all the major western power’s representative talked to the press about the looming mother of all general elections emphasizing that they were not backing any “horse”. Actually the diplomats addressed a number of issues, but the purpose of this post is to try and see through their diplomatic pronouncements to their real concerns and objectives on the ground.
Firstly all western powers share one deep concern—to ensure that Kenya remains peaceful. If anything were to happen to disturb the peace in Kenya a lot of their operations would be badly disrupted. For example did you know that Nairobi has an enviable reputation with donor organizations as one city in black Africa where you will find anything you need. This is in sharp contrast to many other African capitals where certain vital supplies have to be imported and this makes operations very difficult when moving relief food and other supplies to war torn or disaster areas on the continent.
But let’s get back to today’s press conference.
I predicted here over a year ago that this year’s general elections would be the most violent in history. My conclusions were based on...
Read on
Election Violence: Gitobu Imanyara’s Brother Died Because Of A Piece Of Meat
Election violence is always very closely linked to the distribution of cash gifts or bribes to voters.
Elias Mugambi, the late brother of former MP for Central Imenti, Gitobu Imanyara was attacked and killed by his assailant who accused him of failing to buy meat with the campaign funds that he had allegedly been given by his brother.
Mugambi died in the scuffle that ensued after this accusation over campaign funds. The incident took place on September 21st and Elias was buried last Friday (28th September) in Mariene Village Central Imenti.
The suspect is in police custody and will appear in court soon to face murder charges.
Secretly Investigate Unfaithful cheating spouse in Kenya
Why married women cheat
Elias Mugambi, the late brother of former MP for Central Imenti, Gitobu Imanyara was attacked and killed by his assailant who accused him of failing to buy meat with the campaign funds that he had allegedly been given by his brother.
Mugambi died in the scuffle that ensued after this accusation over campaign funds. The incident took place on September 21st and Elias was buried last Friday (28th September) in Mariene Village Central Imenti.
The suspect is in police custody and will appear in court soon to face murder charges.
Secretly Investigate Unfaithful cheating spouse in Kenya
Why married women cheat
Weekend violence in Kibera
I do agree with Phil’s comments on Kibera and being well conversant with Kibera residents, I was very disappointed with the violence that erupted again in Kibera when Mr. Money bags Livondo decided to move with his entourage of vijana na Kibaki to Kibera after holding a rally at Uhuru Park.
I do not support political violence in any form or from supporters of anyone even my favorite Presidential candidate. I also agree that it is every ones constitutional right to vie for a civic or parliamentary seat anywhere in this Country. Freedom of movement is also every Citizen’s right.
On the other hand, I believe that all political rallies or demonstration should be licensed. ODM was not allowed to hold their rally at Uhuru Park because the authorities claimed it was not licensed (even with all the papers from City Council allowing them to hold the function) and two other groups in favor of the government were approved.
Approved or not the Livondo group got the go ahead to hold their rally, but were they allowed to hold a demonstration to Kibera and another rally? Obviously this was a move to create tension in the area and cause ethnic animosity.
I had a meeting in Kibera the next day and was debating whether I should go or not, I thought there was ethnic tension amongst groups supporting Livondo and ODM Presidential candidate Raila Odinga.
I went to my meeting anyway and the area was as peaceful as ever. The only commotion was at the Dos office (people call the place DC), people waiting to be ferried to Nyayo Stadium to attend the Presidential launch. In fact some touts told his friends endeni DC watu wanapewa pesa.
I later enquired from my friends what happened the previous day. They told me most of those throwing stones where Livondo’s supporters and not Kibera residents. Earlier in the morning Kibera residents were told to go to Ngong Hills hotel to be given money by Livondo’s people, they got the money but men snatched all the money from women.
Livondo addressed a crowd in Kibera and decided to introduce his wife, he told the crowd that his wife is called Ida. Immediately he said that, he was jeered and booed by the crowd saying ana tumia jina la shemeji wetu (he is using our in-laws name), referring to Raila’s wife Ida, I was amused by this and wondered if his wife is really Ida or he thinks he can get more sympathy from Kibera by baptizing his wife Ida. Some of Livondo’s supporters removed T-shirts when they reached Kibera for fear of being seen in that group.
As much as it is Livondo’s constitutional right to vie for a seat anywhere he likes, he should not interfere with peaceful loving Kibera residents by using abusive language in the name of acquiring votes. Then claim it is his opponent inciting his supporters to stop his bid.
Sunday, September 30, 2007
President Kibaki Hits The Campaign Trail Without A Clear Simple Message
President Kibaki: Can he recover the lead when Moi implements his latest game plan?
Plus Moi’s Latest Game Plan That Could Turn The Tables On Raila And ODM
The president’s vocabulary has changed dramatically. No longer are we hearing words like Pumbavu, mavi ya kuku etc.
Yesterday I could hardly believe my ears when I heard it on tape as the president made a passionate plea for votes during the Kanu delegates conference that he had gate crashed to address and then he said “please give me your vote.” And he used the word “please” twice in the same sentence.
This is something so rare with this president that I could not help but gape in wonder.
Many analysts are of the view that it is too little too late and it will be difficult for him to recover the lead. More so as secret dossiers exposing corruption in his inner cabinet are leaked. Sources say that the "leaks" will start immediately parliament is adjourned sine die to pave way for the mother of all general elections.
In one day President Kibaki attended and addressed Kanu, Narc DP and Ford Kenya delegates conferences.
Folks the presidential campaign has now shifted gears to full throttle.
Sadly Kibaki handlers are blundering again. The president looks way to desperate, which is a bad thing and hardly does anything to promote confidence amongst the electorate, something which is very important.
But even more worrying, the president does not have a message. He just keeps on repeating that line he loves which is a thinly veiled reference to Raila about how some people should tell Kenyans what they have done since 2002 other than travel the whole country inciting Kenyans. This has gotten extremely boring and it will hardly win votes.
The president should tell us what he plans to improve on during his second and last term. More so the lessons he has learnt which will enable him to correct certain things this time round.
Meanwhile information reaching this blogger indicates that retired president Moi is already pushing Kalonzo Musyoka very hard to join the Kibaki team. All indications are that Moi will succeed. He knows too much about Kalonzo and Kalonzo respects the old man too much to fail to obey him.
Indeed Kalonzo’s behaviour in the last few days seems to suggest that he is merely consolidating his position in Ukambani so that Hoo Ndii Emm and himself look even more attractive to a suitor.
It is said that the Kibaki team will secretly offer Kalonzo much more than just the Vice presidency. They will also be guaranteed several seats in the new cabinet in the event that Kibaki wins a second term. This will include a senior cabinet slot for Julia Ojiambo and two other Kalonzo cronies as well as Mutula Kilonzo being appointed the new AG.
The question analysts should now busy themselves with is; can Raila defeat a Kibaki/Kalonzo alliance? This is a very diffiult question to answer. More so when you consider that there are many in Hoo Ndii Emm who will NOT follow Kalonzo to PNU. This group is also highly unlikely to vote for Raila.
Story that will help you understand Mwai Kibaki politics better.
ODM Nominations Attract Big Numbers
The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) is now reportedly collecting millions of shillings daily in nomination fees from aspiring candidates. According to an insider source at Orange House secretariat, demand for the ODM ticket is so high that for instance, Chepalungu Constituency, currently represented by Sammy Kipsang Koech, has attracted a record 42 candidates! Another constituency in the Kericho area is said to have attracted 21 candidates as at Friday this week. Each of these interested parties paid Kshs. 100,000/- and the list reads like who-is-who in constituency’s academic, business and political circles. Rift Valley Province is currently leading the pack in the number of nominations forms collected followed by Coast Province. Our source further reveals that sitting GNU MPs have quietly collected forms while a ‘good’ percentage of aspirants are said to be women especially those from rural areas.
Meanwhile, even as James Orengo is ‘re-elected’ as SDP Chairman, secretariat workers at Orange House rushed to assist him when he arrived to collect ODM nomination forms for Ugenya constituency in the past week. Another surprise said to have collected forms by proxy is NARC and NPK Chairperson, Health Minister Charity Ngilu.
Not to be left behind, New Ford-Kenya MPs Soita Shitanda (Housing Minister), Mukhisa Kituyi (Trade Minister) and Dr. Bonny Khalwale (Assistant Minister East African Co-operation) have all collected ODM nomination forms and paid the prerequisite one hundred thousand shillings for their respective constituencies. KADDU Chairman is also said to have collected ODM forms using proxy.
The ODM Election Board chaired by (Rtd) Justice Richard Otieno Kwach is bracing for a major test during the forthcoming parliamentary and civic nominations. The party’s NEC has decided that the nominations will be conducted countrywide by secret ballot. This in itself will be a logistics nightmare as it will be the similar to conducting a national general election in all 210 constituencies, with an average of 10 contestants per constituency, and tens of civic aspirants, if the mad rush for nomination forms that is already underway is anything to go by. The ODM is said to be working on a strategy that will prevent a fall out after the nominations. There is also a clause that commits aspirants to back the winning candidate.
ODM has made it clear that it is a single political party as opposed to a coalition. The party’s NEC has set a deadline of 10th of October 2007 by which all those aspiring on the party's ticket are expected to return their nomination papers. This date may be amended depending on when the president dissolves parliament.
Meanwhile, even as James Orengo is ‘re-elected’ as SDP Chairman, secretariat workers at Orange House rushed to assist him when he arrived to collect ODM nomination forms for Ugenya constituency in the past week. Another surprise said to have collected forms by proxy is NARC and NPK Chairperson, Health Minister Charity Ngilu.
Not to be left behind, New Ford-Kenya MPs Soita Shitanda (Housing Minister), Mukhisa Kituyi (Trade Minister) and Dr. Bonny Khalwale (Assistant Minister East African Co-operation) have all collected ODM nomination forms and paid the prerequisite one hundred thousand shillings for their respective constituencies. KADDU Chairman is also said to have collected ODM forms using proxy.
The ODM Election Board chaired by (Rtd) Justice Richard Otieno Kwach is bracing for a major test during the forthcoming parliamentary and civic nominations. The party’s NEC has decided that the nominations will be conducted countrywide by secret ballot. This in itself will be a logistics nightmare as it will be the similar to conducting a national general election in all 210 constituencies, with an average of 10 contestants per constituency, and tens of civic aspirants, if the mad rush for nomination forms that is already underway is anything to go by. The ODM is said to be working on a strategy that will prevent a fall out after the nominations. There is also a clause that commits aspirants to back the winning candidate.
ODM has made it clear that it is a single political party as opposed to a coalition. The party’s NEC has set a deadline of 10th of October 2007 by which all those aspiring on the party's ticket are expected to return their nomination papers. This date may be amended depending on when the president dissolves parliament.
Saturday, September 29, 2007
Kibaki’s Surprise Appearance At The Ford People’s Delegates Conference
All indications are pointing at Kenyans going to the polls earlier than our countdown by as much as a whole month (30 days). However we will stick to our latest possible date countdown and will only change when the election date is formerly announced.
One of the clear indicators of this is the president’s increased activity. Yesterday he turned up unexpectedly at the Ford People’s delegates’ conference. Terrible PR if you ask me because the implication was that the president is fully behind his cabinet minister Simeon Nyachae. Somebody that he should have fired from his cabinet over the political violence incident in Kisii recently where William Ruto and Omingo Magara were chased by armed youths and got slight injuries as a result. But the issue was not the so much the severity of the injuries as the ugly head of political violence rearing its’ head.
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Just as I was making this post, I received word that President Kibaki has also turned up at the Kanu National Delegates Conference today where he again addressed the Kanu delegates and appealed for their votes. I will analyze this in more detail tomorrow.
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Addressing the delegates the president appealed for votes because his government "imefanya kazi" (has worked hard for the people).
Just before the president arrived...
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Is The Steadman Poll Accurate Only When Your Preferred Presidential Candidate Is Winning?
Kalonzo Musyoka of Hoo Ndii Emm says that the Steadmann poll is flawed.
This is really interesting because when he was doing well in the same poll, last year, he often praised it as being very accurate and representative of the people’s views. It is now clear that since he is lagging behind, the poll is suddenly flawed.
Kumekucha has been consistently critical of the Steadman polls. My view is that the people conducting them concentrate most of their efforts on Kenyans in a certain class. The pollsters are quite often young girls in mini skirts and smartly dressed graduates who have never used a pit latrine in their lifetime and are frightened to go into places like the Kibera or Mathare slums—two places that will decide the presidential vote in Nairobi.
When these areas omitted by Steadmann are factored in, the implication here is that Raila odinga has a landslide victory if the elections were to be held today.
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Is Kenya A Failed State?
Guest post by Mathayo
Some time back there was a heated debate emanating from an article that purported that Kenya is a failed state. A lot of noise has been made over this issue. Many Kibaki apologists and "patriots" were all up in arms trying to counter the sentiments echoed in the foreign publication.
During the past few weeks, I have been doing some analysis on the way this country is run. I can now conclusively agree that Kenya is in deed a failed state.
Case Study One: Elections
In a few months time, we are headed for the polls. Once again, Kenyans are going to vote for their tribal chiefs. Kikuyus will overwhelmingly vote for Emilio, Luos Raila, Kambas will also do the same for Kalonzo. How many plates of ugali will be added to my house after having voted for someone who happens to come from my tribe? Note that most of us have never even had the chance to meet these people. But we will proudly shout ourselves hoarse declaring our undying support.
"Intellectuals" who support Kibaki will continually rant about how the economy has grown. The "intellectuals" supporting Raila will tell you that he represents "true change"for Kenyans. But why does it happen that, you will never find a Luo Prof supporting Kibaki and vise versa. Since they don't want to appear as petty, they bring about non-issues to back up their tribal choice. Mutula Kilonzo, Prof Anyang Nyong'o and Lawyer Paul Muite are perfect examples of what am talking about. If at all our very learned members of society are playing petty politics, what do you expect of the general populace?
More to that, Raila is the best candidate in the forth coming general elections, but when you look at the characters he's working with, you feel that we're being cheated. How do you enact change when you have all those Kanu faces in your cabinet? There was a time Raila was on Citizen Television; Louis Otieno asked him a question about bringing change of government. Raila wasted...
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Raila and ODM Must Commence Kenya’s Healing Process Now
After watching political events of the recent months and digesting the latest Steadman opinion poll, I have come to the conclusion that the ODM families must come back together as the first step towards national reconciliation. Now that it is apparent to all that Raila Odinga is poised to be Kenya’s 4th President and that Kalonzo Musyoka may unwittingly end up in opposition benches, the proposed merger of the orange parties should be the number one task, and I expect no less a person than Raila Odinga to initiate moves towards the merger. And Raila must use his statesman skills to make Kalonzo’s landing, just like Mudavadi’s, as soft as possible so as to attract other like-minded political personalities. Both parties have the same objectives and there is absolutely nothing wrong in acknowledging that ideological differences can be ironed out for the sake of making
The Official Opposition KANU has apparently wound –up and joined government. It’s a confirmation that the first families of this country have entered into a conspiracy to control the political and economic resources of this nation at the expense of the rest of the country. The coalition PANU has been formed principally to ensure Kibaki’s re-election and thus ensure a continuation of this conspiracy. And most of those supporting Kibaki now are angling themselves for Kibaki’s succession in 2012. There is certainly no agenda for reforms or social justice. Instead, we are seeing only arrogance and threats from principal partners like Nyachae. These type of individuals must be taught that revenge and retribution is not part of ODM’s development agenda.
Unlike former president's Kenyatta, Moi and Kibaki, Raila must start to be seen as a leader who respects the official opposition and acknowledges its importance to good governance. The ODM must remain objective in their criticism of Kibaki’s regime. As a government-in-waiting, the ODM must show that it can offer workable alternatives. For instance, its recent decision to postpone the launch of its official presidential campaigns by a week is one such smart move. The process of reconciliation should begin now, even before the elections are held. All communities of
Friday, September 28, 2007
Mwai Kibaki Politics And The Experienced Cobbler
archive
One of the things Kenyans must do as we approach the elections later this year is to look back and analyze mistakes that were made in the past so that we stop them from ever being made again.
In understanding Mwai Kibaki the politician, it is useful to take in the following short story. I love to tell stories and I hope you love to take them in.
Nzisa was new in town and wanted her shoes repaired. She saw quite a number of cobblers at one street corner and went to the first one, an elderly looking man, and asked him how much it would cost to repair her shoe. The old man with a very bored expression on his face said it would cost Kshs 200/-. He didn’t even look at her shoes.
“But why is it so expensive?”
The cobbler replied rudely that she...
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Breaking News: Brand new Steadmann opinion poll shocks the nation
One of the things Kenyans must do as we approach the elections later this year is to look back and analyze mistakes that were made in the past so that we stop them from ever being made again.
In understanding Mwai Kibaki the politician, it is useful to take in the following short story. I love to tell stories and I hope you love to take them in.
Nzisa was new in town and wanted her shoes repaired. She saw quite a number of cobblers at one street corner and went to the first one, an elderly looking man, and asked him how much it would cost to repair her shoe. The old man with a very bored expression on his face said it would cost Kshs 200/-. He didn’t even look at her shoes.
“But why is it so expensive?”
The cobbler replied rudely that she...
Read more
Breaking News: Brand new Steadmann opinion poll shocks the nation
Trouble In Eastleigh Again: Time Bomb Is Still Ticking
archive
Two days ago, residents of Eastleigh in Nairobi were involved in running battles with the police for a better part of the day.
Trouble started when residents got fed up with the failure by the City Council to clear garbage that had piled up in a certain area of the expansive estate, so they decided to protest by placing piles of it on the road. The riot police were quickly called in to clear the roads.
Eastliegh is mostly occupied by Somali refugees from a neighboring country that has been at war for decades. Most of these foreigners have been able to effectively pose as Kenyans easily acquiring the national ID and are expected to influence the outcome of the coming general elections in that constituency (Kamukunji). It is no accident that this part of town has been christened Mogadishu (after the capital of war-torn Somalia).
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Breaking News: Brand new Steadmann opinion poll shocks the nation
Two days ago, residents of Eastleigh in Nairobi were involved in running battles with the police for a better part of the day.
Trouble started when residents got fed up with the failure by the City Council to clear garbage that had piled up in a certain area of the expansive estate, so they decided to protest by placing piles of it on the road. The riot police were quickly called in to clear the roads.
Eastliegh is mostly occupied by Somali refugees from a neighboring country that has been at war for decades. Most of these foreigners have been able to effectively pose as Kenyans easily acquiring the national ID and are expected to influence the outcome of the coming general elections in that constituency (Kamukunji). It is no accident that this part of town has been christened Mogadishu (after the capital of war-torn Somalia).
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Breaking News: Brand new Steadmann opinion poll shocks the nation
BREAKING NEWS - STEADMAN POLL
This is the latest poll I just received on email, the sender suggests that if he was the president he would be talking a lot to Musyoka.
Raila 47%, Kibaki 38%, Musyoka 8%. (The other one done this week was just Nairobi)
If Kalonzo would accept then that would mean Kibaki gets 46% and be close to Raila.
However the way things are now, I don’t see that happening and it seem Raila is gaining more by the day.
Thursday, September 27, 2007
Aborted ODM Uhuru Park Rally: Can Violence Still Erupt?
Kenyans need to be especially alert this Saturday. I have just received word that the planned ODM rally has been put off—this time by the ODM high command as well (I hope word gets to all ODM supporters on time).
So far ODM rallies have been peaceful but the circumstances have dramatically changed now. Apart from the political temperatures rising considerably in recent days, one cannot rule out the other side triggering violence so as to win propaganda points against ODM who appear to be on a roll.
The really fascinating thing about all these developments is how history seems to repeat itself. It seems like only yesterday when Moi and his Kanu government were giving the opposition a hard time whenever they wanted to hold meetings. Now under Kibaki (although there are those who say that Moi is back in State House when you consider the power he wields)
My apologies, all my posts for today were accidentally deleted and I will have to redo them and probably post them very early tomorrow morning. Poleni sana
Kibaki Abaki Kamau Born In The Run Up to 2007 Elections
There are those Kenyans who love to name their children after prominent personalities and even events. However I would strongly warn Kenyans against trying to make predictions in the naming of their children.
As I have said the political situation is just too fluid and there are not definites to swear upon.
Although you can be sure there will be no Kibaki Abaki Onyango. You can surely not rule out Kibaki Abaki Njoroge. Or Kibaki Tena Kiogora (from Meru.). Now can you imagine how miserable the situation of those children would be in case the incumbent fails to be re-elected?
I wouldn’t place bets yet on the other side either. What would happen to ODM State House Oduor if something happened and Raila failed to secure the presidency? Or Tsunami Campaign Onyango?
If you think these names are fairy tales then that is a sure sign that you have lost touch with the grassroots in Kenya.
You will find all sorts of names like Bomb Blast Marere who is a constant reminder of the events at the American Embassy in Nairobi in the late 90s.
My apologies, all my posts for today were accidentally deleted and I will have to redo them and probably post them very early tomorrow morning. Poleni sana
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
Kalonzo Musyoka’s Strange Presidential Campaign
archive
For most of last week and into this week Hoo Ndi Emm presidential hopeful Kalonzo Musyoka has been campaigning in Ukambani spending considerable time in his own backyard and the neighboring constituencies, including that of Health Minister Charity Kaluki Ngilu.
This is rather strange for a national presidential candidate. Imagine President Kibaki spending a whole week campaigning in Central province with most of his time spent in Nyeri and Othaya? Or Raila Odinga spending a week in Luo Nyanza campaigning? It just doesn’t work like that.
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For our count down to elections in this site we have taken the latest possible date for the election which will be 27th and 28th December 2007. There have been strong indications that the president is eager to have the elections done before Christmas so that Kenyans can enjoy their holidays without pending polls hanging over their heads. However this seems more unlikely by the day, as a result of several emerging factors including the delay in printing of ballot papers caused by an ongoing court case filed by a company that lost the lucrative tender. A high court judge has ordered the Electoral commission to halt all work on the ballot papers. Still there is the possibility, albeit remote, that elections could still come earlier than the 27th/28th date (the extra day is usually to allow for an extension of voting if necessary.)
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My understanding is that where your bedrock of support is, is the place to send representatives while you the presidential candidate concentrates on gaining votes in other difficult provinces.
It has been widely reported in the media that Hon Kalonzo has had difficulties campaigning in areas of Rift Valley where charged crowds have accused him of being a traitor. The presidential hopeful has also met with hostile reception in one or two other areas in the country. So it would seem that Kalonzo prefers to campaign closer to home as a result...
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