The Perils of Emotion-Driven Politics: Lessons for Jubilee and Beyond

 For a long time, I have emphasized the need for wisdom in governance. The Jubilee government, in particular, could benefit from the guidance of experienced elders to temper their decision-making processes. When emotions drive decisions, it often leads to serious political missteps.

The Creation of Political Giants

Jubilee has inadvertently created giants in Kenyan politics by overreacting to their opponents. A prime example is Ali Hassan Joho, whose political stature was amplified by Jubilee's undue focus on him. Instead of ignoring his rhetoric, they gave him a platform, turning him into a hero and a significant player on the political stage.

Now, Jubilee is repeating the same mistake with Babu Owino. The young politician is ambitious and seeks to ascend quickly in Kenyan politics. By overreacting to his controversial remarks, Jubilee is playing right into his hands, elevating his profile and solidifying his position as an opposition figure.

Babu Owino’s Court Case: A Strategic Misstep

Babu Owino is set to appear in court over remarks perceived as abusive toward the president. However, he appears to have a strong defense, as his comments did not explicitly name anyone. The law demands clarity, and without clear evidence, the case may devolve into a circus of conflicting interpretations.

Meanwhile, this legal battle only serves to bolster Babu Owino’s image. Instead of diminishing him, Jubilee is inadvertently building him up as a symbol of resistance, much to their political detriment.

The Dangers of Emotional Decision-Making

Jubilee’s recent actions highlight a broader issue: the dangers of emotional decision-making in politics. Hatred, particularly directed toward Raila Odinga, has clouded their judgment, leading to decisions that lack strategy and foresight. This emotional bias has resulted in abusive rhetoric and actions that further polarize the political landscape.

For instance, while many Jubilee supporters have openly directed insults at Raila Odinga, none have faced legal consequences. This inconsistency undermines the credibility of their actions against Babu Owino and invites criticism from opposition supporters.

A Lesson from "The Godfather"

In The Godfather series, Don Corleone advises his son to never hate his enemies, as hatred clouds judgment. This principle applies beyond fiction. Emotionally charged decisions lead to mistakes that can have fatal political consequences. Strategic thinking requires objectivity, not emotion.

A Broader Lesson for Life

This is not just a political lesson but a life lesson: never let hatred guide your decisions. It’s not just a moral or biblical principle; it’s practical common sense. When emotions dominate, poor decisions are inevitable, whether in politics or personal life.