Wangari Maathai fought a good fight, she has finished my course, she has kept the faith ... RIP prof.

Prof. Wangari Maathai's Awards: 

2010: Earth Hall of Fame, Kyoto (Japan) 
2009: Earth Hall of Fame, Kyoto (Japan) 
2009: Humanity 4 Water Award for Outstanding Commitment 2 Action 
2009: The Order of the Rising Sun, Japan 
2009: Judge, 2009 Geotourism Challenge, National Geographic, USA 
2009: NAACP Chairman's Award , USA 
2008: Dignitas Humana Award, St John's School of Theology, USA
2008: Cinema Verite, Honorary President, France 
2008: Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA), Honorary Fellowship, UK 
2007: The Nelson Mandela Award for Health & Human Rights, South Africa 
2007: The Jawaharlal Nehru Award for International Understanding, India 
2007: Cross of the Order of St Benedict, Benedictine College, Kansas, USA 
2007: World Citizenship Award, World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts 
2006: The Indira Gandhi International Award for Peace, Disarmament & Development, India
2006: Premio Defensa Medio Ambiente, Club Internacional De Prensa, Spain 
2006: 6th in 100 Greatest Eco-Heroes of All Time, The Environment Agency, UK
2006: Medal for Distinguished Achievement, University of Pennsylvania, USA
2006: Woman of Achievement Award from the American Biographical Institute Inc., USA 
2006: The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights,Milele(Lifetime) Achievement Award 
2006: Legion D'Honneur, Government of France 
2006: The IAIA Global Environment Award,International Association for Impact Assessment, Norway 
2006: Disney Wildlife Conservation Fund Award, USA 
2006: World Citizenship Award 
2005: New York Women's Century Award, New York Women's Foundation, USA 
2005: One of the 100 Most Influential People in the World: Time magazine, USA 
2005: One of the 100 Most Powerful Women in the World: Forbes magazine, USA
2004: Nobel Peace Prize, the Norwegian Nobel Committee, Norway 
2004: Sophie Prize, the Sophie Foundation, Norway 
2004: Elder of the Golden Heart, Republic of Kenya 
2004: Petra Kelly Environment Prize, Heinrich Boell Foundation, Germany
2004: J. Sterling Morton Award, Arbor Day Foundation, USA 
2004: Conservation Scientist Award,Center for Environmental Research and Conservation, Columbia University, USA
2003: Elder of the Burning Spear, Republic of Kenya 
2003: WANGO Environment Award,World Association of Non-Governmental Organizations , USA
2002: Outstanding Vision and Commitment Award, Bridges to Community, USA 
2001: Excellence Award, Kenyan Community Abroad, USA 
2001: The Juliet Hollister Award, Temple of Understanding, USA 
1997: One of 100 in the World Who've Made a Difference in the Environment:Earth Times, USA 
1995: International Women's Hall of Fame,International Women's Forum Leadership Foundation, USA 
1994: The Order of the Golden Ark Award, the Netherlands 
1993: The Jane Addams Leadership Award, Jane Addams Conference, USA 
1993: The Edinburgh Medal, Medical Research Council, Scotland
1991: The Hunger Project's Africa Prize for Leadership, United Nations, USA
1991: Global 500 Hall of Fame: United Nations Environment Programme, USA
1991: The Goldman Environmental Prize, the Goldman Foundation, USA 
1990: The Offeramus Medal, Benedictine College, USA 
1989: Women of the World Award, WomenAid, UK 
1988: The Windstar Award for the Environment, Windstar Foundation, USA 
1986: Better World Society Award, USA
1984: Right Livelihood Award, Sweden 
1983: Woman of the Year Award

Why does Kalonzo fear anything that has mark of Raila?

Kalonzo fights any shadow that resembles Odinga

Updated September 20, 2011 Story by Josh Wa Meeme

The public have been treated to theatrics of words from Kalonzo and group over the IEBC selection panel list of 44 applicants. I'm trying to understand why these people are complaining about the selection panel list if they do not have interest. Simply because Chairman Ekuru Aukot was picked by PM Raila is a reason enough to oppose him? In the words of Kalonzo 'we cannot allow next election to be rigged in 2011.' And this group want Kenyans to believe that they have no interest in the team that is going to manage the election?

This is the group that has publicly stated that their mission is stop Raila from becoming President. What makes them think that Kenya will buy such myopic narrow thinking? I still wonder why this group really fear the Raila Presidency. Kenya will not choose the president based on hatred of a group of people.

Well, the group is clasping on false hopes. They tried to frustrate the enactment of constitution by either being in the watermelon team or strictly red. They failed. They tried to block the Hague cases through shuttle diplomacy and admissibility claims. They failed. They placed another boulder by blocking Dr Mutunga from assuming office as the CJ. They failed. They have tried desperately to turn the public against PM Odinga. They have failed. Now the want to block a constitutional process of appointing the IEBC team. What makes these perennial failures that this time they are going to succeed?

Indeed, am of the opinion that these dudes belong to the political dustbins. Why would Kenyans want to have these Kanu aftergrowths as their leaders? They all think they will be anointed as the heir apparent of StateHouse. They have not taken time to study Kibaki the man they have worked under fro the last eight years. Both the Hague Hyenas and Hague preys are in for rude shock come the next elections.

If Kalonzo was a person with something in between his ears, he would have befriended the IEBC selection panel and not fight them. This is constitutional body and fighting it is like fighting a losing battle. If the cases at the Hague are confirmed Kalonzo will be political orphan who will find it difficult to sell what he believes to the people of Kenya.

Hague Session II

Hague Session II featuring Uhuru, Ali and Muthaura


Updated 18 September, 2011 By Josh wa Meeme

I have been waiting for the moment to watch the unfolding Hague drama. However, to the brothers affected this seems like a nightmare that does not seem to go away. I pray that whoever they believe in will give them strength to overcome the temptations to make trivial and costly mistakes.

In Session I the world was treated with so unnatural witnesses whose evidence to the highest court under the Heavens. These witnesses were so symmetrical that their submissions were carbon copies of each other. Indeed after listening to them I thought it could have been wise if the defence applied to the court to have one person appearing twice as two different witnesses for the same suspect. It could have reduced the cost of keeping these people at a far country when they not their evidence only confirmed the fears that they had been coached on what to say and how to exonerate the suspects.

Sorry, if I sound too skeptical and cynical, am only playing the role of devil's advocate for my beloved brothers. Indeed they all concede that crimes were committed but no one want to shed some light on who, where, why the crimes were committed. In the first session the most mentioned word was 'Spontaneous'. I'm still wondering what magical word will be used by the second group of suspects. Could be retaliation, help? am still waiting for the start of the hearing.

The suspects should have now known that their evidence may not count if the plan by the ICC to set up an office in Kenya is anything to go by. Just like we say in our community when someone is drowning it is bu reflex action that they clutch on the floating logs and other useless debris.  Sorry if it becomes difficult for anyone to read between the lines of the ICC intentions. The die has been cast

Could Ruto have been testing his popularity with RED campaign?

Playing the referendums RED card in the next general elections

Updated: Thursday, 25 August, 2011

Story by: MEEME JOSHUA

The signs of Ruto's sacking have been hovering for a long time. Indeed the sacking will endear him to more Kenyans who have rightly forgotten he headed the RED card centre. Now the PM Raila Odinga will licking his wounds in Rift Valley in what has been orchestrated to mean a purge on the area leaders.

Region's leaders have been made to believe that Raila originated the woes Ruto faces with ICC cases. In the event that charges against the sextet are confirmed at the Hague, Ruto will intensify his blames on Raila. With the Constitution being silent on suitability of people appearing before a court like the international criminal court, Ruto's name will definitely appear on the ballot.

The question that we seek to answer is, will Ruto support another person? Let take a walk down memory lane. Delegates conference in Kasarani, that anointed Raila as ODm presidential candidate, Ruto had calculated well that he would clench the nomination. However he was prevailed upon when he was promised the premier's post. The fallout in ODM inner circle was attributable to that day promises and failure to honour them.

His recent statements that he has been supporting others during the 8th anniversary after the death of Kijana Wamalwa speaks volumes. In a coded message he seems to tell other contenders to support him for the stab on the presidency. He tested himself against Raila during the refendum for the New Constitution. Having garnered two million, Ruto feels that is a large block of votes to front for others to support him. This is block that he want others to consider in support for his bid.

It should not be forgotten that all the rest except Cyrus Jirongo were either watermelons or Greens. If Ruto convinces other to support him, Kikuyus will not feel rightly represented in the government based on history. Why are the members of the community apprehensive of Ruto's rise to power? When Moi became the President he brought all prominent Kikuyus to their knees. The community has not forgotten  but are holding a grudge against their suspect friends.

During the 2007 post election chaos, it was the two communities that suffered the highest damages. The issue of IDPs in the area and around the country has not been resolved. This is to mean that the unity calls could be just a veneer that covers the hidden agenda of their leaders.

Among the Ruto supporters, his sacking depicts Raila as being intolerant to diverse views. But that was dilemma that Raila faced; damned if he never sacked the rebles, damned if sacked them. If opted for the latter.

Mutua should have lost his job, not Chief

Kenyans say: Release Chief and crucify Mutua

Updated: Wednesday August 10, 2011

Story by: JOSH MEMENTO

The Chief from Kalapata area bore the brunt of telling the world that his people were dying of hunger. This was after Government Spokesman Alfred Mutua challenged the media on his weekly media briefing to reveal any information of a person who had died of hunger and not disease or old age. Who between the two should have lost his job?

Dr. Mutua was serving his employer diligently by covering his nakedness even when the employer was dying. The Kalapata Chief was serving to save his people from more deaths. Kenyans of goodwill could not turned p in large numbers had they known that the government was on top of things in alleviating hunger. But because we knew the bureaucracy and sluggishness in attending to issues that deserves urgency, Kenyans-for-Kenya went out to help their brothers and sisters suffering suffering in Northern Kenya.

Indeed it should have Mutua who should have lost his job for not representing facts. Being out of touch with the people that pays him, is a crime that should have cost him his job. But this is Kenya. The chief was sacked for exposing the dire situation affecting his people. To rub salt to an injury, the Internal Security Permanent Secretary Francis Kimemia justifies sacking the chiefs. Where do this guys live? Indeed now I understand why when most people coming from these regions claim to be coming to Kenya when they coming to Nairobi. This is because they do not consider themselves to be in Kenya.

This impervious government turned its deaf ear on the meteorological warning that that rain would not be enough and many people would suffer famine. If indeed the problem was logistic as the government's spin doctor want Kenyans to believe, they could have measures in place to avail the food to the people at the opportune. However what we see is  shameful knee-jerk reactions to hunger when people are already dying.

From the success stories, that have aired in the media, Kenya is not hungering for food but for resolute leadership. Why would a government that has taken oath to protect Kenyans, result to reactionary measures of sending relief food when these people can in fact feed themselves. Information is power. Many of these in Northern Kenya do not have a choice to be pastoralists but this is the source of livelihood that they know. If the government can avail water either from the underground or from the rivers across the country, these areas can be food sufficient. Sacking the chiefs was not a solution to the problem of hunger. This exemplifies a situation of killing the messenger from bringing the message to the relevant people.

Wake up guys! Kenyans will not remember you for the good cars that you drive or by how well you argue on behalf of your employer but by how well you represent actual information. Dr. Mutua must be forced to resign for denying that there were people suffering of hunger; the chiefs should be promoted for bringing to the attention of Kenyans the fate of his people.

Has God forsaken Kenyans?

Rain clouds: Now Scientists want to make rain for Kenyans

Has God forsaken Kenyans or is it vice-versa?

Updated Saturday, July 30, 2011 Story by: JOSH MEMENTO

Has God taken leave of duty on Kenya, or Kenyans have deviated from the path of righteousness and wrath of God has befallen us? James 1:2-4 “Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that may be perfect and complete, lacking in anything.”

the Bible is explicit that that the people shall meet trials that will test their faith. But now it seems the tribulations have become too much to bear. Pangs of hunger are biting hard and may be God is watching from from Heaven; He has closed the flood gates of rain, now drought is more seasonal than rain; Kenyans are starving without food and God's people are dying in droves!

Have Kenyans forsaken God or God has turned a deaf ear on Kenyans? Whichever the case scientists now are seeking a man-made solution to man-made problems of droughts – making artificial rain! We must applaud the humanitarian effort to feed the starving. But this will not go on forever. We need a permanent solution to alleviate food scarcity.

Statistics show that 70 percent of rain falls in the Oceans and Seas and 15 percent falls in deserts and other other areas that are not good for farming. The command that “man shall till land” to put food on the table is no longer tenable. Due to the problem of global warming even the 15 percent that was falling in the right places at the right time is no longer falling!

The result is perennial droughts and droughts, lack of food suffering of people and animals and death. Since the problem is man-made, it deserves a man-made solutions. We cannot blame God for problems of our own creation. We must seek solutions. Aquiess Global Rain Project led by David Miles seeks to provide the solution. Through scientific magnetic technology the group will divert rain that falls in the oceans to fall on our land. Viola! The suggestions knocks down Kenyans with a feather.

While many people in Kenya and the Horn of Africa go everyday without food, changing weather patterns have definitely changed their fortunes. Now in 90 days we are sure of man-made rain for our land. Rest assured! It is not left to chance any more! But are we making God irrelevant? I do not thing  so. Genesis 1:26 says “Let us make man in our image, after our likeness.” In God's likeness, man is becoming artificial rainmaker!

Uhuru and Ruto: Hague drama may make or break Kalenjin-Gikuyu unity

Uhuru and Ruto: The Hague jinx

Updated: Wednesday, July 27, 2011 Story by: JOSH MEMENTO

As the country wakes up every new day, the Hague confirmation hearings are drawing near. No doubt the Hague trials will permanently alter the course of Kenyan politics and leave an indelible mark in the Kenyan political landscape.

But even as reality of confirmation hearings sinks, Uhuru and Ruto (the two gentlemen at the centre of political quagmire) continue to wield fanatical political following that has seen Uhuru's political ratings rise closing in on PM Raila Odinga as the preferred successor of President Kibaki. The two have created a perception that they are being persecuted and the man behind their woes is the PM.

Uhuru and Ruto definitely wield a lot of political influence. They have stated categorically that theirs is a mission to block Raila from becoming president. Both gentlemen have taken vantage positions to woo their communities and have conveniently exploited gullibility of their communities on effects of the trials on their political careers. In the worst case scenario, if charges against them are confirmed later in September, there is a real danger that their communities will link their trials to the PM. This is likely to deny the PM votes he desperately needs from these regions.

Coming from the vote-rich regions of Central Kenya and Rift Valley, Uhuru and Ruto cases at the Hague could dim the star of Raila succeeding President Kibaki as the fourth President of Kenya. The two communities seem to have been joined by the 2007/8 chaos that left more than 1000 people dead and 500,000 others internally displaced.

Somehow the duo has managed to convince many of their followers that their woes have something to do with Raila's influence. While the assertions are definitely untrue, the propaganda campaign seems to have achieved its objective and likely to bring home their mission of preventing Raila from assuming the presidency.

As the Hague process rolls on Central Kenya heir apparent and silently anointed successor, is rolling up his sleeves oblivious of the obstacles raised by the ICC courts. Same applies to Rift Valley de facto leader William Ruto. Strangely 2007/8 post election violence pitted the Kalenjin against the Gikuyu from where Ruto and Uhuru come from.

Both communities have a high tendency to be herded by their tribal kingpins. Moi had managed to call shots among the Kamatusa group of the expansive Rift valley while both elder Kenyatta and Kibaki have held a sway among the Gema communities of the Central region. Sentiments expressed by other leaders in support of the Uhuru and Ruto, leave no doubts that they are unperturbed by the Hague process.

As the ICC prosecutor Moreno Ocampo continues to gather evidence against the two, he has also stepped up demands to have them relieved their duties from the government. The government of President Kibaki has continued to bury its head in the sand like the proverbial ostrich on Ocampo's demands. And even went ahead to open its own miniature investigations, four years after the violence.

If the charges against the two are confirmed, it would become difficult under the new Constitution dispensation for any of them to have his name on the ballot in 2012 general elections. However, whoever they anoint are their preferred presidential contender, is likely to reap from these communities. Whether this would make true their objective of preventing Raila to become President, only time will tell. Pundits are however skeptical on whether the two communities will remain together after Hague or the magic that holds them together would be lost.

It is clear any presidential hopeful must make inroads in these two communities due to their numbers and fanatical following. The tragedy that analysts sight in case the cases against the two are confirmed is their communities would be left like a herd without a shepherd. It would be too late for any of other politicians to appeal to these communities to the level attained by these two.

Only time will bear us out whether likes of Martha Karua and Peter Kenneth in Central Kenya and Gideon Moi, Samuel Poghision or Isaac Ruto in Rift Valley are likely to reap from post-Hague tragi-drama of two political-cum-tribal kingpins.

joshmemento@yahoo.com

Affirmative action depicts women as weaker sex

Quota? Are women really a minority to deserve affirmative action?

Updated: Monday, July 25, 2011
Story by: MEEME JOSHUA

“It must be considered that there is nothing more difficult to carry out, nor more doubtful of success, nor more dangerous to handle, than to initiate a new order of things” - Niccolo Machiavelli

Nothing could be more apt and spot-on than this Machiavellian quote during this debate of women representation and proposal of quota system. But the question that we should try to answer is, are women really marginalized? Are women really a special group? Are they the minority?

Whether man or woman, right down in our hearts we know the answers. Human beings naturally dread change at a personal level but at the same time want others to change. Change creates a void of past practices and status quo, hence creates chaos as different aspects of life rush in to fill the vacuum.

When the Constitution was being changed, many people viewed the change in respect to how it was going to affect others as opposed to how the new order was going to change their systems, daily routines, way of life and sense of self-worth. Men and women are slaves of inertia. Any change that affect us must be opposed.

In highly male dominated society, women empowerment is usually vehemently opposed. Increasing women representation in elective positions has specifically rubbed men folk the wrong way. Fear and suspicion now characterize reactions we are witnessing.

No revolution, though has completed without vicious counter-reactions. Not this one. Now men folk want to sneak a progressive argument to achievement of one-third threshold of either gender to avoid legal backlash from women activists. But do women really deserve special treatment?

No doubts women have been under-represented in Parliament. But they are the majority in terms of demographical statistics. But women are their own enemies! Putting a caveat on selected constituencies would infringe on the rights of people to choose their favored candidates irrespective of gender. To achieve this constitutional quota, calls for more than just assigning particular constituencies as exclusive women areas.

The one-third threshold women must be achieved through educating more women to come out and vie. Civic education should also be directed to women folk in showing them the need to appreciate their fellow women in leadership. In reality, even in appointive posts if women fail to apply for particular position there is no way the one-third threshold can be achieved. It is time to educate women to have faith and trust on their fellow counterparts.

Women should also have a paradigm shift and break away from the the belief that they weaker sex and therefore should be treated as marginalized. Women should come out and fight for both elective and appointive positions. If women could elect their female counterparts, the representation could be much higher than one-third stipulated in the Constitution. However, women seem to know something about other women that men folk are not aware of. Could it be that women know something about their own deficiency and capacity to lead that men folk do not?

* * *

Indeed, affirmative action should be defined in terms of regions: in areas like Central Kenya and Ukambani men are the marginalized and deserve the benefit of affirmative action. Sorry women are as equal and able as men only if they change the attitude.

joshmemento@yahoo.com

Akiwumi conspiracy to reward MPs, unconstitutional

Kenyan Parliament gone berserk

Updated: Saturday, July 23, 2011 Story by: MEEME JOSHUA

When Kenyans go to the ballot next year it would be time to breathe a sigh of relief and to break from an overbearing group of 222 greedy Kenyans holding the other 40 million hostage. This bunch of rogue people are acting as if there is no tomorrow! The tragedy is if we do not tame their errant behavior, we are likely to set the wrong precedent in the implementation of New Constitution.

Am jilted by Parliament's immoral proposal to operationalize Akiwumi Report simply because they have been asked to pay taxes. The report seeks to increase Mps salaries to Sh1.1m and reward former Mps with an handsome allowance of Sh90,000 fr their entire lives. I do not understand the rationale behind burdening Kenyans with pensions of people who have nothing to show in terms of development of the constituents. Why else would people vote someone out except due to incompetence?

Kenyan Parliamentarians have been absolved in so much self-worth that it has clouded their vision and reason. Based on the recent opinion polls, two-thirds of this group won't make it back in the August House. They have schemed to employ scorched-earth policy to arm twist Kenyan taxpayers to pay them for being reminded that they have a constitutional duty to pay taxes. Why would Kenyans be burdened to pay these retired shenanigans Sh90,000 every month when they could not manage Sh850, 000?

Increase of salaries has great emotional dissonance with suffering of poor Kenyans. Mps behavior epitomizes a mole that eats plants from the roots oblivious that they need food the following day. What has one term MP done so much to deserve a lifetime monthly payment of Sh90,000? When Mps are voted out it is because they have failed their constituents. Why should the same constituents be punished for lack of performance of an individual they would rather not have as their leader? This is mind boggling!

Let us do some mathematics. We have had 10 general elections since independence. Over 60 percent of sitting Mps lose their seats on average in every election. That is 130 Mps lose their seats. In 10 elections there is an accumulated 1300 former Mps. Paying each one of them Sh 90,000 will cost taxpayers a whooping Sh117m per month and Sh1.4b every year! This money enough to employ 5,000 primary school teachers. Where are our priorities? Paying retired, useless, former Mps for sitting at home drinking changaa and imbibing busaa, when our schools are highly understaffed, when our hospitals do not have enough medicine for the sick, when Kenyans are dying of hunger, is immoral.

In its wisdom or lack of it, Akiwumi Commission recommended that Mps salaries be increased to Sh1.1m before they are subjected to taxes. With 349 Mps in the next Parliament, Sh383m will be spent on Mps salaries every month and a total of Sh4.7b every year. This money is enough to expand the entire Mombasa Highway and reduce traffic jams that eat Kenyans man-hours on the road.

To say the least, Akiwumi Report is grossly unconstitutional. According to the Constitution power to review State Officer's salaries is bestowed upon Salaries and Remunerations Commission. Article 230(4) states that, “The powers and functions of the Salaries and Remunerations Commission shall be to (a) set and regularly review the remunerations and benefits of all State Officers.” This commission has not been established. Who has given the Parliament the power to abrogate the Constitution?

Article 122(3) states that, “A member (of Parliament) shall not vote on any question in which the member has pecuniary interests.” To allow Mps to determine their salaries is like allowing a hyena to preside over a case where a goat is the accused. There would be no fairness! Article 94(1) states that, “The legislative authority of the Republic is derived from the people and, at the national level, is vested in and exercised by Parliament.” Parliamentarians act on authority entrusted to them by the Kenyan people. The question is, in whose authority are MPs seeking to increase they allowances?

This rogue Parliament is using scorched-earth policy mechanisms, not punish the Executive as they want Kenyans to believe, but to punish Kenyan people for pushing them to pay taxes. It is time to come together against that rubbish known as Akiwumi report in the interest of Kenyan people.

joshmemento@yahoo.com

PLO Lumumba, empty rhetoric won't win corruption war

PLO, win graft through action not tough arguments
Updated: Wednesday, July 20, 2011 Story by: MEEME JOSHUA

Dear Patrick Lumumba Otieno aka PLO,

I salute your, sir! When you were appointed the anti-graft czar one year ago, many people breathed a sigh of relief but an equally large number were skeptical. Now it seems the skeptical were damn right and the optimists are frustrated. Indeed you have very little to show for this period and Kenyans are getting weary of your daily presence in the media pleading with the corrupt who have looted Kenya dry. Their scotched earth policy does not require negotiations.

On the face of it, your strategy seems to be based on the principle of stirring the waters to catch the fish, both large and small. But it appears you are avoiding catching large fish. In reality corruption and the corrupt are like very, very slippery eel. Sorry if I misjudge you, but you seem to have assumed office without a concrete principle or philosophy to deal with graft. To deal with ubiquitous nature of corruption, requires more than just blabbering: it requires an equally omnipresent nature of anti-graft crusaders. Not in the media but in the battlefields.

In the realm of power, PLO, you must prejudge your actions against the effects the actions will have on the people. You seem to enjoy playing the anti-corruption game on the publicity court. Playing to the media gallery does not add value to the war but only hardens the resolve of the corrupt. You irritate most of us when you take to the streets to protest corruption in the Lands Ministry; you irritate when you tell us that you are investigating ministers but six months later, there is nothing to show; it is boring to see you on TV everyday pleading with thieves. Please, engage your brain before putting your mouth on high gear.

You say you are not a hunter and there are no witches to hunt, and therefore cannot witch-hunt! This is besides the point. Corrupt people are more than witches and should be hunted. PLO, you are an archer: take your quiver, arrows and bow and set on a long journey to hunt the ogre that is eating the Kenyan future. We the Kenyan people trusted your ability and resolve to deal with graft. One year later, reality sinks; corruption is amorphous, faceless and a monster that fight back viciously. Nothing to show!

This is the reality check, PLO. Many people have died from preventable and curable diseases because money meant to buy medicine was siphoned to private offshore accounts; many Kenyan children's future is in mortal peril after unscrupulous people looted money meant for free education for poor pupils; many more are dying of hunger in a country that has so much potential it can feed itself and its starving neighbors because money meant for irrigation landed in private hands; the dead lament in their graves as pot-bellied merchants strut their huge bodies and parade their large limousines bought with graveyard's money; and the list is long. If you can't do anything, then you are not up to task.

PLO, just want to remind you a quote from Albert Einstein “problems cannot be solved from the same level that caused them.” It is unfortunate that your actions show that you are in fact at a lower level and therefore cannot reach the might-corrupt. PLO, corruption cannot be easily deciphered because it is enmeshed in a simulation of integrity and good morals. To deal with it requires more scheming and thinking than talking.

We the Kenyan people, sent a distress call when our house(Kenya) was on fire(corruption). You came but now seem to have no instruments to extinguish the fire and you have resulted to sideshows of chasing rats escaping the raging flames. PLO, you can do better!

Frustrated Kenyan,
joshmemento@yahoo.com

Who is paying Government Printer to sabotage the New Law?

Mysterious hand of evil forces act on Government Printer?

Updated: Tuesday, July 19, 2011 Story by: MEEME JOSHUA

Situated along Haile Salesie Avenue in Nairobi, is a house that has been on the lips of many Kenyan for long; but for all the wrong reasons. Welcome to the Government Press.

According to the mission declaration of this department under Office of the President it aims, 'to provide quality printing services to the Kenyan Government promptly and at the most economical costs and to ensure adequate security and supply of all documents ...' While it is clear the Kenyan Government is entrusted in leadership by the people of Kenya, Government Printer seems to be dancing to the tune of some strange forces pulling Kenyans backwards.

Despite a clear mission statement, the department does not either offer printing promptly or with adequate security. This Government Printer seems to be working for some retrogressive forces in this country. Let us though not condemn them without a reason.

The insertion of strange clauses in the Draft Constitution in May 2010 was a case in point. Having failed to insert the draconian clause, the Government Printer has now embarked on a mission to frustrate the implementation of the Constitution that they desperately opposed.

In delaying the publishing of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission Act as was required, the Government Printer is dragging the implementation process into crisis time schedule. The question that begs an answer is: who does this Government Printer work for? Definitely not the Kenyan people! Some strange evil forces seems to have converted the Government Printer into their marionette.

In May 2010 a strange insertion of “national security” in the Bill of Rights, could have sneaked justification of human rights violations on allegations of threat to national security. Just to jog our memory back, the controversial clause had been inserted in Article 24(1)(d) on Limitations of rights and fundamental freedoms. The Article had been changed to read "the need to ensure that the enjoyment of rights and fundamental freedoms by any individual does not prejudice national security, the rights and fundamental rights of others."

The phrase “national security” was inserted by a phantom hand. The mystery surrounding the insertion has never been solved. The puzzle seems to have died a natural death. The Government Printer's version of the Bills signed into law or the Constitution is the official one and would be legally binding. This means other documents with similar text are not legitimate. Suspicions emerged on who inserted the clause when AG Amos Wako denied having any knowledge of the changes.

Fast forward, July 2010. A critical bill is signed into law after Commission on the Implementation of the Constitution raised a red flag on the delay at the AG's office after the Bill was passed in Parliament one month earlier. Lame duck excuses of unavailability of the Clerk of the National Assembly did not hold any water. When the Bill was finally signed into law July 5, 2011 the delay was shifted to its publishing. Ideally, the Government Printer's version is the legally binding. Kenyans have waited but wasted!

Despite the importance of this legislation into the preparations of the next general election, some unseen forces had delayed the publishing of the law. First copies of the legislation were received July 18, 2011, two weeks after it was signed into law. However, the Government Printer does not offer any explanation of the delay. This is a conspiracy to defeat the implementation of the Constitution.

This critical law sets in motion mechanisms to set up a new Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission. Among the issues the Commission is expected to address is carving out an additional 80 constituencies to make a total of 290 as stipulated in the Constitution, putting together a new voter register, and starting voter education to reduce voter apathy. The task ahead is enormous and delaying the establishment of the commission would crash its schedules. Am not a conspiracy theorist but my crystal ball tells me that the delay is a well orchestrated plan to delay the implementation and hence postpone the date for the general elections.

Mr Government Printer, whoever you work for, We the Kenyan people are watching your actions with keen interest. Andrew Rukaria, you owe Kenyan people an explanation.

joshmemento@yahoo.com

Is this the era of desperate married bachelors?

Couples living single-miserable-lonely lives

Updated: Monday, July 18, 2011 Story by: MEEME JOSHUA

“Marriage is an alliance entered into by a man who can't sleep with the window shut, and a woman who can't sleep with window open” (George Bernard Shaw)

Marriage is a confluence of different personality traits which mostly works best as parasitic not symbiotic relationship. Marriage is not for convenience sake or complementary purposes but selfish search for happiness. For well fitting pair, the couples must act like interlocking spurs: where there is a weakness in one partner, the other partner becomes the supporting strength. But this is not the case. In many couples when their partner errs, it is because he/she was poorly brought up, or had perverted peer groups in their youth, or they are engaging in bad company. In trying to justify the weaknesses of the other partner, rifts between them are surely widening. Two people meant to be together, are perennially quarreling and complaining of each other's behavior.

Complains is the first sign that two people are not in conformity with each other. Marriage therefore built on the wrong foundation, weak building materials by incompetent masons. First, when people get married, the famous cliche is: marriage is not a bed of roses. Publics judgment is based on other people's failure. But no one really tells you why their marriage failed. Coming with a mindset of failed marriages, can only expect theirs to follow similar path. Any natural and human mistake, is viewed as being the beginning of deviant behavior.

Secondly, people get into marriage with a lot of expectations. What follows is broken promises and frustrations. Coming from a completely different relationship of father, mother and siblings, marriage comes into existence on unbeaten path. Couples do not get into marriage union with experience. None of them has been married before and most of the time will rely on the 'wise' counsel of the best couple; who may not have experienced happy marriage either. If you are a lady they will tell you men are like that; if your are a man, your are told 'welcome to institution of nagging companionship'.

Third, when people meet nowadays they barely have time to study the other person's past lives and character. Indeed, in the olden days the role of parents was to identify the family that had good morals to have a marriage relationship with. But now grown up people meet in colleges and in towns; all with vested interests. They, more often than not, wear a camouflage for purposes of trapping the other person. After safely tying the knot and being together then separation is too costly and painful. This comfort zones reveals the true hidden character of the other person. The result is pain and betrayal.

Fourth, each person is looking for mister or madam right. With a well designed template in the mind, suitability of a person is checked against behaviors and mannerisms of perfect people we watch on soap operas. Because no one is perfect unless when they are acting, the bar is raised so high that people take many years searching for the right partner with no avail. When time catches up with them, they desperately accept any person of the opposite gender who comes their way.

People get married for their own selfish reasons and/or due to forces from without. Many marry to please their parents; many marry because their peers are married; many marry because it is a career requirement; many marry for kids; many marry for strange reasons besides being in love with each other. Due to the rush and urgency from external forces, many people make wrong choices. They have no time to learn from each other but spends time scheming how to outdo the other partner to fall into spell. Rarely do these partners seek to understand whether the other person can live with their shortcomings, for the remainder of their lives.

They say, if you want know how a woman is going to treat you after some years of marriage look at how their mother treats father; if you want to know how a guy is going to treat you after some years look at their father. But many will claim they are different persons. However, as much as we try to be different, we will always carry some of genetic traits from our parents. Many married couples have been duped by their partners that theirs will be different companionship but end up in the same rut of abuse, complains and loneliness in marriage.

What was initially sweet honey, becomes bitter pepper that the other partner want to keep away from. The love which two people shared before, becomes a case of usual man or woman in the house. Familiarity breeds conflicts. But solving these conflicts determine the future of marriage. It only through communication that the inner self opens to outside world. Engaging in communication with sole aim of understanding your partner before it is too late, is key to long happy marriage. Couples, though, do not seek explanation due to fear. The result is reserved heart and mind that conflates the wrongs and resentment swells. Because naturally a swelling has its limits, when it reaches its bursting point, the marriage cannot be salvaged without painful consequences.

The alternative is living lonely-single life in a marriage relationship

joshmemento@yahoo.com

'Wangu wa Makeri' myth comes back to haunt Kenyan men

Men folk in for a rude shock in the general elections

Updated: Thursday, July 14, 2011 Story by: MEEME JOSHUA

A myth is told in the Kikuyu community of Wangu wa Makeri. Wangu is said to have been an iron lady who sat on men's backs as the headman(woman) of Weithaga location in Muranga. Men in the village schemed to overthrow her leadership by impregnating her. Based on this myth, men have been wary and worried of women leadership and domination. However, let me state from the onset that women have equal, if not better leadership qualities than men. Over time cultural beliefs and practices like marriage and Female Genital Mutilation have been men tactics of subduing women. But now, the Constitution gives the woman a new lease of life; but not without a fight from this domineering patriarchal society.

Women renaissance will come with dawn after the next general elections. For the chauvinistic males who think women are less human beings, this is indeed a sad turn of events. This is so because it is all systems go with early campaign mood engulfing the country. Even as men wallow in the hangovers of old order, the Constitution is clear that equity and equality shall form the basis of a democratic society. Men need a 'panel beating' in their thinking.

While men have hit the road campaigning, women are still swallowed in their domestic chores only to come and announce their intentions of seeking elective posts when men are already far much ahead. Our women have resigned to fate due to men intimidation. Few know anything else beyond their domestic chores. Their husbands are demigods and when they cough, the woman answers. However, getting out of this forced inertia, the law provides to a kick-start and goad women egos. The Constitution envisaged this scenario based on history and therefore there was need to put a gate-valve to check male dominance in leadership.

Article 27(8) states that “ ... not more than two-thirds of members of elective or appointive bodies shall be of the same gender.” For appointive it easy but not so for elective posts where ravenous men scramble for the positions. Article 27(6) observes that “the state shall take legislative and other measures including affirmative action programmes and policies designed to redress any disadvantage suffered by individuals or groups because of past discrimination.” In an heavily male Parliament, women have been disadvantaged and therefore deserve benefits of affirmative action.

But critics argue that this section will infringe on their personal right to vie for elective posts. This argument though, is hollow for a number of reasons. First, this section is found under Bill of Rights which overrides other clauses like provisions on Article 99 on elections of Members of Parliament. Second, enjoying individual rights must not infringe on rights of other people. This does not mean because one has a right of expression, should go out shouting obscenities.

Article 24(1) states “A right or fundamental freedom in the Bill of Rights, shall not be limited except by law to the extent that the limitation is reasonable and justifiable in an open and democratic society based on human dignity, equality and freedom ... (d) the need to ensure that enjoyment of rights and fundamental freedoms by any individual does not prejudice the rights and freedoms of others.” This is to mean that enjoyment of ones rights must come with responsibility and respect of the rights of the majority. Men must enjoy their right to vie for elective posts but ( with a rider) must be sensitive to the rights of women based on past discrimination.

Having cited these sections of the Law, it is therefore premature for men to burn their energies campaigning without knowing which constituencies will be designated for women contestants ONLY.

By calculation the Constitution expects at least 116 Mps and 23 senators elected to the National Assembly and Senate respectively, be women. Interim Independent Electoral Commission chair Issack Hassan, cautions that failure to achieve this constitutional requirement would result to “unlawful” government as stipulated in Article 3(2).

The formula to achieve this is to divide 290 constituencies into groups of four – and through casting lots, one of the constituencies must be exclusive for women contestants. Simply put, men will barred by law from contesting in these constituencies.

Men have however, gone full throttle in campaigns oblivious of the danger that lies ahead. My brother, hold your horses. May be the constituency you are eying will be the one selected for woman representative. It is wise to wait-and-see.

joshmemento@yahoo.com

The magic of Raila-Karua duet in quest for Presidency

Would Raila-Karua combination take the Presidency?

Updated: Tuesday, July 12, 2011 Story by: JOSH MEMENTO

Kenya's political atmosphere is inundated with calls to have intrepid leadership succeeding President Kibaki. More than ever Kenya must get it right in the choice for political leadership. However, there is a character that identifies Kenyans: balancing political power against tribal matrix. Loathe it or like it, tribal diversity is not going anywhere and so is its influence in the political arena. If opinion polls conducted lately is anything to go by, Raila Odinga is the man to beat in the coming election. All guns are trained on him. It is a cabal schemed by a group that cannot fathom out PM Raila Odinga taking over the mantle of country's leadership. This the G7. Whether this group will hold together upto election time in August next year is a matter of speculation.

However, the group's denominator is its common enemy: Raila Amolo Odinga. It has been spirited fight which has historical roots and political undertones. Though G7 have a common enemy they do not (so far) have a common general to lead the war against their perceived enemy. Indeed, my advice to them is, in seduction (trying to woo Kenyans to trust them with leadership), retreat is strategy. It is a moment to reflect on mistakes and plan fresh tactics to counter the enemy. Kenyans could though be getting weary of insatiable hate that the group has against the PM. Having nothing else to show can easily backfire. Hold your horses, guys.

Let us study the best combinations for the Presidency and Deputy Presidency. Being an observer of the political drama over a period of years, my crystal ball tells me that it is not going to be easy for any of the contenders. However, the headache of seeking public approval can be lessened with an appropriate choice of running mate.

Raila's strategy is to become the bearer of the dream of a reformed country. Winning the prize does not come without a price. Naming his running mate is probably the biggest Raila's headache so far. With no deals to cut, constituting a Pentagon-like group will not wash. My best bet for Raila's running mate would be Gichugu MP Martha Karua. This is so because Deputy PM Musalia Mudavadi has become a political liability after the loss of Ikolomani seat to incumbent Bonny Khalwale. The tribal matrix is so complex that determinant must be derived from public approval rather than political suitability. Karua as running mate will work out for a number of reasons. First, the women folk will be contented that they are well and highly represented. This would deliver majority of women votes to a man candidacy. Kenya is patriarchal society and a man must be seen to head the family of presidency. However, woman's choice cannot be taken to the bank as Kalonzo's choice of Julia Ojiambo in 2007 as running mate, did not excite women not even her constituents.

Secondly, Martha was the force that opposed Raila in 2007 disputed elections. If the two can come together this would present a therapeutic effect in healing tribal rifts among Kenyan communities. Thirdly, both Karua and Raila are reform minded. Although power corrupts good people, choosing someone who is already compromised in vices is political folly. One represents and resonates with the young turks while the other represents the old folks. Fourth, is the tribal trump card. With all due respect to other tribes, history has it that Kenya achieve tremendous growth and calm when Kikuyus and Luos work together.

Let us turn to the other crowded arena of anti-Raila forces. My best choice would be Eugene Wamalwa. Though he has not outgrown his late brother's political shadow, Eugene has less baggage of the group. His choice for running mate would be either Ruto or Uhuru. Luhya being the third largest tribe in Kenya, choice for Wamalwa would bring together the community. However, loyalty of the Luhya community cannot be relied on. Late Kijana Wamalwa came distant fourth in 1997 in an election that then incumbent Daniel Moi garnered majority of Luhya votes.

Secondly, it would be easy to market Wamalwa than it would be for Uhuru or Ruto who have ICC cases hanging over their necks like the Albatross. Kalonzo Musyoka would not sell has he has eroded his trust throw his forays on the ICC process with his shuttle diplomacy campaign. Kenyans are also aware of his fence-sitting style of politics. However, Ruto has Moi factor weighing on his shoulders. This flamboyant politician has not reconciled with his political 'father' Moi who he ridiculed during last elections.

Uhuru's stab who be punctured by his lineage. Coming from the First family that Kenyans believe is responsible for unequal distribution of resources, it would be hard sell for Uhuru outside his Kikuyu backyard.

However, the performance of Uhuru and Ruto in government speaks volumes of people who can perform. Under Uhuru the economy has stabilized from near dose dive after 2007 election chaos. Ruto's imprint in ministries that he has lately headed speaks for itself. From the Agriculture to ministry of Higher Education, Ruto has made his presence felt with result oriented approaches. Either of the two would be a good blend of carryover and fresh thinking in leadership.

The last force would be Mutava Musyimi with Tourism minister Najib Balala as running mate. This combination will cement the gap of religious hostilities and suspicions between the Muslims and Christians. Coming from minority community, Mutava would have no tribal following to flaunt. Balala's choice will extinguish the embers of secession fronted by a group of Coast residents.

One year, though, is eternity in politics. Many changes are likely to be seen and the tide may shift in the due course of time. However, based on the present players and dynamics, these seems to be the probable combinations that would make a good fight for the country's presidency.

joshmemento@yahoo.com

Bitter-sweet experience of Kibaki tenure

Factor or no factor in Kibaki's endorsement

Updated: Tuesday, July 12, 2011 Story by: MEEME JOSHUA

As the clock ticks towards August 2012, politicians are angling for vantage positions to capture country's leadership. Unlike, other elections this one is a game changer. This is so for a number of reasons. First, Kenya has new constitutional order that will define political, economic and social landscape in the country. Second, retiring President Kibaki is more focused on retirement and his legacy than who is taking over State House after him. Third, there is no favorite who can rest assured that the mantle will handed over to him or her. Fourth, unlike other elections there are no deals to cut for appointments in government. Those who loose out have no fall back plan to arm twist the leadership into positions of power. These are just the few of the many reasons why this country will never be the same again.

Kibaki's mien of indirection, indifference and amorphous political character, has left friends-foes, haters-admirers all in a confused state. But questions arise as analysts grapple with prevailing political dilemma: Will President Kibaki approve any of his foot soldiers as his favorite? Does this approval, if it will ever come, translate into mass conversion? Does Kibaki really have a fanatical following that he can herd behind his choice of successor?

Surrounded by scheming power brokers who have only self interest at heart, Kibaki's temptation to name a successor would blur or dull his legacy. Kibaki's characteristic withdrawal tactics is a snobbish disdain of petty politics that surround and identify Kenyan political landscape. Nothing can be more intoxicating for the President than an imagination to leave a legacy of a president who changed the destiny of the country. Nothing can be more suffocating than being surrounded by crowds of people yearning for approval on their selfish stab of Presidency.

Indeed, Kibaki's approval may be of no consequence. President Kibaki has no concrete and fanatical political following that he can flaunt to his successor. President Kibaki became a beneficiary of Kenyans apathy, indecisiveness and gullibility, occasioned by poverty and cost of living. The cost of living reflects the country's nostalgic memories of the good-old-days when life was simple and cheap. Not any more as surviving in Kenya is based on the rule of the jungle 'Survival for the fittest'. Life is complex and expensive. Why haven't Kenyans realized the benefits of economic prowess under Kibaki rule? Now, it can only be a matter of speculation but it will form a subject of research in the financial-economic disciplines.

Mr. President we would want to remember you for many things but also would want to forget your tenure for many more. Kenyans would want to forget that it was during the disputed 2007/8 elections that the country descended into the brink of precipice; Kenyans would want to forget that during your tenure the cost of living became unbearable and ordinary forks had to contend with one meal per day; Kenyans would want to forget that during your tenure Kenyans experienced astronomical corruption: from Triton Scandal, FPE money plundering, Anglo-Leasing saga, maize scandal, and many more.

But let give you credit for seeing a more cohesive Kenya where we see you more of Kenyan President than a President of Kikuyu origin. Kenyans will remember you as the President that broke away from history and brought development uniformly across the country irrespective of political affiliations and tribal origins; Kenyans will remember you for leading in the change for constitution; Kenyans will remember you for demystifying the institution of presidency; Kenyans will remember you for less-talk and more-action strategy to transform the country; Kenyans will remember you for reviving the economy, availing education opportunities for all Kenyans through Free Primary Education, and improving the health sector. Mr President Kenyans yearn to see who is going to inherit your dream of a reformed country. But even as you read this piece and prepare for your retirement, know that your legacy and achievements will come to a cropper if top leadership is inherited by a person who will take us back where we are struggling to run away from.

Mr President, you have proved that Kenya can move forward with right leadership. Your legacy Mr. President will not only be measured on the scale of smooth transition from despotic Moi regime but also a similar transition to after Kibaki era. God bless Kenya, Long live Kenya.

Email: joshmemento@yahoo.com

Kenyan MPs thinking incompatible with New Constitution

Parliament has become a den of thieves

Updated: Sunday July 10, 2011 Story by: MEEME JOSHUA

From conspiracy theorists, connivers, to deal cutters, to utter thugs, to corrupt mandarins, to drug barons; men, this is a cocktail of evildoers in the name of law makers. Welcome to Kenyan Parliament. Now this bunch of devil's disciples have earned themselves another tag of tax-evaders. This group of self-seekers smack of stinking skunk in the bedroom. Kenyans cannot fathom this stench any longer. Natural way to keep a skunk from running after you is throwing any rag on its way and her rage will be shifted to the rag. Kenyan Mps epitomize an insincere group that does not feel obliged to return gestures of generosity by poor tax paying Kenyans. Why is it painful to pay to Ceaser what belongs to Ceaser?

Are these the same people who shouted themselves hoarse as they sought voters' mandate? Only to forget constituents wishes once they settled in Parliament. Waheshimiwa, have you forgotten your character of breaking promises? So it hurts when someone else breaks your promise, but it doesn't hurt when you plunder Constituency Development Fund with abandon; when you grab public parcels of land; when you divert the natural course of justice? Ahaa! Guys, just remember a simple rule: do unto others what you expect done unto you!

In the words of Yatta MP Charles Kilonzo, Mps are not broke, but on the same breathe they do not have a million to pay the debt owed to Kenya Revenue Authority. My head is spinning. Mheshimiwa, are you broke or not broke? Kenyans are aware, due to the lavish lifestyles most of you lead and the numerous number of mistresses that you keep, you hardly save anything at the end of the month. I bet a casual laborer working in Industrial Area has better financial discipline than most Mps. Or how else can we explain a person earns Sh 850, 000 per month, is entitled to a car untaxed, entitled to mortgage at very low interest rates and cannot have a million in his/her account to pay debts? You must be damn extravagant.

Indeed, Mps have become a liability to Kenyans and the earlier they roast themselves in their fat of rage into early elections, the better. Kenyans know your resolve to oppose payment of taxes has been buoyed by the Speaker's sentiments and insistent claim of having a binding letter that has suspended the Constitution. Mr. Speaker, give me a break. Letter or no letter, magical potion of an alchemist that you used to churn out wise decisions seems to have fallen flat. Now the man who dorns a wig and flowing robe, talks too much and Kenyans can barely make out what he is saying. Constitution is supreme.

I dare MPs again to make good their threat of paralyzing Parliamentary business. And the actions will boomerang back to them without recourse. Nairobi Metropolitan Robinson Njeru Githae, the man who told Kenyans to eat rats if they cannot afford maize, has pulled another surprise from his bagful of folly. Or how do we interpret his philosophy of defining 'pay-as-you-earn' as compared to what this brilliant lawyer calls 'pay-as-you-receive'? Whether you earn or receive, the fact Githae is paying taxes. Looking at how you describe yourself, you claim to have philosophy. Your philosophy states that “Do the best you can.” Am wondering for whose benefit you 'do your best'? Is it for the interest of helpless Kenyans or to pamper your greedy self? Even when it comes to churning out folly, do the best! That sounds cool?

Ndia people are dying in poverty. Nairobi Metropolitan ministry has nothing to show for the years you have been at the helm. Is this doing your best? The mission of the ministry states “To manage the Nairobi Metropolis by providing sustainable infrastructural services and high quality of life to all its residents, visitors and investors”. Apart from removing pebbles on Uhuru Highway and planting flowers, is there anything else that your ministry can be counted as achieving? City roads are horrible; the drainage system is horrific; security is horrendous. Sure Githae under any standards, this is not doing the best. A country's leadership that has less Githaes, Kilonzos, Gumbos, Mbadis is a better country. Meet your destiny at the ballot, waheshimiwa. I think you have a mindset that is not compatible with the New Constitutional Order.

Email: joshmemento@yahoo.com

Exposing folly of Kenyan MPs

Marende and Co. are liability to Kenyans

Updated: Thursday, July 7, 2011 Story by: MEEME JOSHUA

Speaker Kenneth Marende and his coterie plan to block implementation of the Constitution as a punishment for their requirement to pay taxes. Ironically, these guys are at the coast bathing in fun of sand and sun at the expense of poor Kenyans. We are footing their bills to have fun and insult our religious folly of paying taxes. And then to rub salt to the wound they have the audacity to even announce that they had to cut deals before they supported the Constitution. They even threaten to strip off the President and PM of retirement benefits and cut their spouses allowances for paying taxes. Where do these guys live? In Mars or Jupiter or utopia? Who told these bunch of less than 200 Kenyans that they are above they law? Paying taxes has nothing to do with the person of President and PM but everything to do with Kenyan people and the sanctity of the Constitution. It is a Constitutional mandate to pay taxes. Do Mps ever ask themselves what would happen if every Kenyan suspended paying taxes like them? This is a hollow threat. We as Kenyans disregard the threat with contempt it deserves.

Kenyans are no longer gullible. The clamor not to pay taxes separates people who Kenyans can trust with the leadership and self-seekers. Marende and his ilk must remember being in Parliament is not their right but at the mercy and service of poor Kenyans who are paying taxes. Sorry, I may sound emotional. But am in a foul mood. This action of threat by Mps only proves what Kenyans have all through suspected: that our representatives are mercenaries on hire and only engage in endeavor where they are benefiting. They cut deals in Parliament. Period. This tells me that if this group of shenanigans knew they would be required to pay taxes they could have opposed the Constitution. What a shame. On the contrary, am yet to understand the rationale of a Speaker who is a lawyer and understands the sanctity of the Constitution, in supporting pedestrian argument about opposition to payment of taxes.

We may give the President and the PM the benefit of doubt for scheming to dupe Mps with shallow kind of interpretation and unconstitutional promises. But it was a necessary evil at a time when Mps had proposed to have more than 300 amendments on the Constitution. But due to the threshold in the Constitution of Kenya Review Act their plans were frustrated. The next strategy was to campaign against the Constitution. Kenyans are aware that until this meeting most of the Mps were 'watermelon' group. Supporting the Constitution by day and opposing it at night; not because they had read the document but for the folly of not reading it. Wake up, guys. This is new Kenya!

The Constitution is very clear that any law or agreement that contravenes the Constitution is null and void. Article 2(4) “Any law, including customary law, that is inconsistent with Constitution is void to the extent of the inconsistency, and any act or omission in contravention of this Constitution is invalid.” Article 3(1) "Every person has an obligation to respect, uphold and defend the Constitution.” If you were duped to support the Constitution thinking it could treat with velvet gloves, forget it! Indeed, if push comes to shove and you jeopardize implementation of the Constitution as you threaten, it you whose term as honorable members would come to unceremonial end. We Kenyans can't wait any longer to see you back in Parliament with that fire. But Article 210(3) is clear to most of you except the few of you who cannot read and write. Article 210(3) states “No law may exclude or authorize the exclusion of a state officer from payment of tax by reason of (a) the office held by the state officer; or (b) the nature of the work of the State Officer.”

Mr. Marende, on what constitutional basis did you have an agreement? Did you ever read the Transitional clauses and see areas that are suspended by the Constitution? Am now doubting whether you are really as wise as Kenyans have been made to believe. Well I sympathize with you on two issues. First, as a person you will be required to pay millions of shillings in tax arrears. And that must be painful. However Mr. Speaker this is the reality Kenyans have known to live with: the pain of paying taxes. It is not act of philanthropy as you claim, it a constitutional responsibility. Second, you must be in dilemma. Damned if you support the President and the PM, and damned if support the Mps. You have consciously chosen to support the Mps on opposing payment of taxes. However, let me remind you payment of taxes is personal issue and taxman will not hesitate to attach your property if you fail to comply. You became a member of collective folly and any attempt to oppose payment of taxes is like clasping to a straw when drowning from raging river waters.

To Parliamentarians make good your threat to paralyze Parliamentary business and you will have yourself to blame. We are not kind to you any more. We can't wait any more to send you home. Why should we have Mps who are liabilities and only take action on issues that benefit them? Why keep you when you cannot reciprocate the generosity of poor Kenyans? To all Presidential contenders, vetting will be public and those who have not become tax compliant so far, can bid the quest farewell.

Email: joshmemento@yahoo.com

Saba Saba Heroes: Kenyans who became bridges to 2nd Republic

Selfless Kenyan heroes celebrated during this week of Saba Saba 19th Anniversary

Updated: Wednesday, July 6, 2011 Story By: MEEME JOSHUA (Part 1)

A country that forgets its history, has no business planning its future. This is why in my two-part series, am revisiting history to celebrate selfless Kenyan heroes who fought autocratic Kanu regime for the freedom that, we as Kenyans, are enjoying today. It is through the blood of those who lost their lives and others maimed during the Saba Saba riots, that formed the basis for political pluralism and democracy we are now enjoying.

During this time Kanu was 'baba na mama'. However, Kenyans were jilted by blatant rigging of elections in 1988 through the infamous queuing (mlolongo) system. It was a time when Kanu party rebels were being excommunicated. These actions by the Moi government caused furore among the public. Later the following year, then US President George Bush (senior) appointed former Washington Times Newspaper chief executive Smith Hempstone as the new ambassador to Kenya. Owing to his journalistic background, Hempstone was a strong critic of corruption and single party system of government. Ironically, then British High Commissioner Sir Roger Tomkys defended Moi regime against riotous Hempstone. Hempstone was a diplomat with journalistic mien and could not be silenced. During this time, Moi enjoyed cordial relationship with then British PM Margaret Thatcher. With the fall of Soviet Union and the end of Cold War, Kenya was at the mercy of US and donor community. Push for pluralism intensified. Hempstone's opposition of Kanu government earned him tongue lashing from Kanu hawks including Joseph Kamotho, Oloo Aringo, Sharrif Nassir and Mulu Mutisya.

On February 13, 1990, then Foreign Affairs Minister Robert Ouko died under mysterious circumstances. This fueled public dissent. It was in December 1990 when a commission led by then Vice President George Saitoti with its members among them President Mwai Kibaki, recommended overhaul of modus operandi of Kanu including cessation of excommunication of Kanu dissidents and abandonment of queuing system.

Then Editor of Nairobi Law Monthly Gitobu Imanyara filed an application in the High Court questioning the constitutionality of 1982 amendment to make Kenya de jure one party state. This case was to be heard before Justice Sir Norbury Dugdale (British Citizen). There was no chance of success in the case as the judge had made other conservative rulings in favor of Kanu dictatorial regime, among them dismissing Prof Wangari Maathai opposition of building of Kanu headquarters at Uhuru Park and denying Alexander Arap Muge's widow request to have a public inquest into her husband's death.

At this time Jan 1991, Raila, kenneth Matiba and Charles Rubia were still in detention and voices of reason were scattered among them aging Jaramogi Oginga, Masinde Muliro and Martin Shikuku. It was at Chester House along Koinange Street where doyen of politics Jaramogi and other anti-Kanu figures coalesced to make an announcement. This time was formation of a political party National Democratic Party in defiance of Section 2A of the then constitution. In a press conference attended by international media, Jaramogi cited 1982 constitutional amendment, as an infringement of fundamental human rights of association as enshrined in the Constitution. It was one of the haphazard amendments that made the Constitution look like patchwork of draconian laws. However, Kenyan media shied from reporting, fearing reprisals from Kanu Special Branch officers.

When Nairobi Law Monthly wrote a commentary about the party three days later, its Editor Gitobu Imanyara was arrested and copies of the magazine confiscated by government forces. Gitobu was charged with publishing 'seditious attack' on the government. This however did not silence this firebrand politicians from Meru.

Lawyer Paul Muite was elected in March 1991 as chairman Law Society of Kenya. Muite's activism helped clamour for change with more courageous and fearless voices. April 1991, Rubia was released from jail and headed straight to Nairobi Hospital for treatment. On May 1991, Jaramogi was arrested and arms planted in his home in Bondo to prove allegations by Assistant minister in the Office of the President John Keen, that he (Oginga) had planned to overthrow Kenyatta government in the 60s and was planning to do the same to Moi government. On June 9, 1991, Matiba was released from detention and went to hospital in England where he stayed for one year after suffering stroke in prison. Two weeks later, Raila was also released from prison. All these people were on detention without trial; a strong violation of human right. More of them were severely tortured while in detention.

In May 1991, a British politician David Steel invited LSK chairman Paul Muite and firebrand politicians-cum-lawyer James Orengo for a dinner. It was during this dinner that Steel suggested that their effort to register NDP could not materialize and they needed to change strategy. Buoyed by 'Velvet Revolution' in Czechoslovakia, Orengo suggested formation of a movement that could be registered under Societies Act. The movement was to be be called Forum for the Restoration of Democracy (FORD).

A group coded named 'Young Turks' including Orengo, Japheth Shamalla, Muite, Imanyara and Raila convened a flurry of secret meetings for preparations of what they called a church meeting. The meeting was expected to held at CPK (Church of Province of Kenya), All Saints Cathedral, Nairobi. Young Turks were fiery but church leaders developed cold feet owing to intimidation from the government.

Later, this group of 'Young Turks' approached politicians with the idea that if they registered the movement it could have been easier to carry their campaign. Each province was to be represented by one politician in FORD. To join the bandwagon was Jaramogi Oginga (Nyanza), Phillip Gachoka (Central), Masinde Muliro (Rift Valley), Ahmed Bamarhiz (Coast), George Nthenge (Eastern) and Martin Shikuku (western). Nairobi and North Eastern was not represented. Nairobi slot was expected to be taken by Matiba who was still in hospital. North Eastern's Ahmed Khalif was expected to represented the province but later changed his mind.

On July 4, 1991 Jaramogi Oginga announced formation of FORD. (To be continued)

Email: joshmemento@yahoo.com

This is my vision for Kenya

My vision for Kenya

Updated on: Tuesday, July 5, 2011 Story by: MEEME JOSHUA

“The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams,” (Eleanor Roosevelt)
Fellow, Kenyans I present myself as a presidential candidate in the next year general elections. I know many of you have similar dream to do what am planning to achieve. But I have labored to conquer my fears and feelings of inadequacies to make this declaration. It is not by chance that we have a common origin but for a reason. It therefore upon each one of us to discover for what reason we are meant to be in this beautiful country Kenya. I have visualized a vision of a Kenya that I want, a Kenya that wants you, a Kenya that wants us.

It is a Kenya where hunger shall not be considered a business opportunity to make more dirty millions at the expense of the poor and dying Kenyans; A country that feeds its citizens and donates the 'leftovers' to its neighbors. Not a country perennially with a begging bowl in her hands living at the mercy of leftovers from less potential endowed countries and unsafe genetically modified foods. We will stop playing the role of 'guinea pigs' in the food science world.

Fellow Kenyans, people die. But we should stop dying from preventable and curable diseases. Kenya should be country where the poor and the rich have guarantee to have best medical cover. A country where we are not shipping out doctors and nurses to other countries because of poor pay as politicians continue to plunder public resources.

I envision a Kenya when citizens are sure of tomorrow. A Kenya where we are not living by the barrel of the gun but by the sanctity of the Constitution. A Kenya where there is no fear of attack from armed thugs or uniformed police officers. A Kenya where criminals will be criminals because of the crime they commit not because of their poverty. A Kenya where justice is not on sale to the highest bidder; A Kenya where crime and lawlessness will be punished in fairness irrespective of the social class. A Kenya where both the victims and suspects will appreciate the speed and cog of the wheels of justice.

I see Kenya where corruption and impunity will not hide behind 'it wasn't me.' A Kenya where the corrupt will carry their cross without stroking tribal passions of 'we are being finished.' A Kenya where communities will not herded by tribalists with handouts and empty promises. A Kenya where citizens will not be employed because of who they know in high office but by the substance of their character and intelligence. A Kenya where the buck of responsibilities is not passed to the 'powers from above.' A Kenya free from scheming political class.

A Kenya where all and sundry will pay taxes without complaining. A Kenya without power outages. A Kenya where we will realize the potential of God-given geothermal power, enjoy revenues from Iron Ore deposits in Tharaka, Gold mining in Kakamega, Coal in Kitui and Titanium mining in Kilifi. A Kenya that enjoys her sovereignty, knows her borders and not scared of her erratic neighbors.

Fellow Kenyans am certain many of you share this dream with me. But no one of us can achieve it individually. Let us join our hands together. Let us not waste our energies striving to pull others down but yearn to come up to their level. God bless you, God Bless Kenya.

Email: joshmemento@yahoo.com

Kibaki-Raila: Benefits of negative energy in quest for New Law

How Kibaki/Raila gaffes and goofs catalyzed quest for New Law

Updated on: Tuesday, July 5, 2011 Story by: MEEME JOSHUA

Love them or hate them, President Kibaki and PM Raila Odinga have earned themselves chapters in Kenya's history books. Admired for his tenacity and feared for his resolve, Raila attracts friends and foes with equal measure. For good reasons Kibaki will be missed by many. He as though made enough enemies with his gaffes and goofs that has accentuated his tenure of leadership. Its see-no-evil-indifference that paradoxically goaded Kenyans into demanding a better constitutional order. Without which Kenyans could have been contented with the old constitution. Let us take a walk down memory lane. Moi disbanded Ghai led Constitution of Kenya Review Commission, but no one raised a finger. Kenyans waited with baited breath for their chance to exit Moi through Yote yawezekana bila Moi (Everything is possible without Moi).

Moi went back to Sacho but Moism remained. The old ways of governance remained to haunt Kenyans as majority of politicians were still captive of Moi's autocratic way of leadership anchored under the old constitution. Joined by hip like Siamese twins Kibaki and Raila became the centres of influence in politics. All issues gravitated around these two gentlemen after Moi exit.

However, it was an example of different players using the same set of rules of the game. Impunity reigned, corruption was carried forward: from Goldenberg to Anglo Leasing finacial scandals. Under Kibaki, Kenyans were voted as the most optimistic people in the world! However, expectation comes with an equal measure of frustration. Optimism that characterized Kenyans slowly slid into cynicism and later hostility against Kibaki leadership. Kenyans discovered that the problem was not the persona of Moi but the Constitution that give him power to rule with an iron fist. Even as President Kibaki is credited for his broken promises, PM Raila has earned a tag of disgruntled person.

Before the unceremonial defeat, Raila had been frustrated by Moi after Uhuru was anointed at Kasarani Delegates Conference to take over mantle of leadership through the then ruling Kanu. Raila was jilted and jumped ship with a group of loyalists including Kanu's two other vice-chairmen Kalonzo Musyoka and Musalia Mudavadi. After Kibaki formed the first after Moi government, Raila still remained an unsatisfied man in the Ministry of Roads. His 'gentleman's agreement' with Kibaki had not been honored.

Credit will go to President Kibaki for being 'gentleman' enough to reject MOUs. If Kibaki ruled as Kenyans expected, we could have stuck with the old-bad-oppressing constitution. Kibaki's demeanor became the catalyst for the quest for new constitution. First, was MOU with Raila after endorsement of Kibaki Tosha slogan. Not long 'Gentlemen's agreement' on power sharing between Kibaki and Raila was overtaken by demagoguery kitchen cabinet code named 'Mt. Kenya Mafia' that was busy sampling trappings of power. It was what late Kijana Wamalwa termed as tension fueled by Railamaniacs against Railaphobias. The government was sharply divided.

With bungled MOU and untimely death of Kijana, Narc dream turned into nightmare. Raila went whole hog to rock the government that he was serving from within until he was sacked three years later. It was after the government was embarrassed after Wako Draft was rejected in the referendum, that Kibaki ran the government for one month without a cabinet. This was a moment of allowing reality to sink: ODM brigade was bundled out of government. Dec 2005 ministers appointed including Charity Ngilu(Health), Musikari Kombo (Local Government) and Orwa Ojodeh (Environment and Natural Resourcces) with a retinue of assistant ministers turned down the offers; and Kenya turned another page in history where President's directive could be rejected, ignored and opposed without fear of repercussions.

Fate has a peculiar way of shaping our destiny. Post election violence of 2007/8 came at the nick of time to nail the point home: need for constitutional reforms. But a reality check was the day of promulgation when Kenyans broke away from their oppressive past. Though there is nothing we can do to erase the scars, there is no gain without pain. Then came the circus surrounding the meaning, interpretation and application of the word 'consultation' as envisioned in the National Accord that formed the coalition government. If PM Odinga was consulted in the appointment of judicial officers then implementation of the Constitution could have started from the wrong footing. President Kibaki receded the decision again. It was another moment of reckoning when the feared presidential prerogative was demystified. A president could back down his orders due to public pressure?

Now we have new law but Kenyans are still thinking in the old way of being at the mercy of imperial feared presidency. Hangovers and inertia of yesteryears will pull us down and weigh down on us, but it upon us to shed the old ways for the sake of survival of New Kenya. Just like an eagle that must beat its beak and claws, pluck its feathers, Kenyans must take painful but necessary steps to redeem this country by concentrating power in institutions. Public must keep vigil.

Kenyans never received New Constitution on a silver platter and so its implementation is not likely to come on easily, either. Any person that stands on the way of Kenyans unity and culture of constitutionalism, will definitely be ran over. Going to Parliament is no longer coveted prize; where people went to seek political insurance to cover their ill-gotten wealth. Presidency will no longer be the vantage point to channel resources to one's community. It is a new Kenya that every Kenya must own.

Email: joshmemento@yahoo.com