Good morning fellow Kenyans,
Almost one and half years to the general elections, political violence is once again rearing its ugly head as a section of the political class engages in early campaigns.
Virtually every week now, disruptive political activities have become a way of life with some leaders evidently hell-bent on openly propagating violence and beating the drums of war for their own selfish interests.
However, insignificant it may seem to be, the weekend drama between a section of Tanga Tanga leaders clash with the police in Nakuru should not be taken lightly as it may be the start of another dangerous trend as we approach the polls.
As much as police are entitled to enforce the laws of the land, democracy should not be put on trial lest we lose the hard-earned freedom of speech and association.
Moreover, DP William Ruto and his political nemesis ODM leader Raila Odinga, who are set to be the main challengers in the upcoming elections, have both faced hostility while addressing crowds, which is another troubling case of dangerous political intolerance incidences expected to get worse if stern action is not taken to curb it.
It is disheartening that these same leaders witnessed first-hand the ugly scenes of 2007/2008 post-election violence but are slowly taking us back there slowly either knowingly or unknowingly.
Here are the stories making headlines on Opera News today:
Moment of Truth for Uhuru, Raila and Ruto as Counties Vote on BBI
It’s a defining moment for President Uhuru Kenyatta, his deputy William Ruto and ODM boss Raila Odinga as more county assemblies are expected to vote on the BBI Bill this week.
So far, 11 counties have endorsed the Constitution of Kenya (Amendment) Bill, 2020 with only one – Baringo – rejecting the proposed constitutional changes.
Raila Negotiated Handshake Before Repeat Poll, Mudavadi Says
A bitter row has erupted between ODM leader Raila Odinga and his Nasa principals, dimming their chances of fielding a joint candidate to face Deputy President William Ruto.
ANC boss Musalia Mudavadi termed Raila as a political con and alleged the handshake was a pre-arranged settlement before the repeat presidential polls in 2017.
DP Ruto Ally on Why Raila Shouldn’t Miss on 2022 Ballot
A close ally to Deputy President William Ruto has seemed to stake high on Raila Odinga, DP Ruto’s Presidency revealing why he[Raila] should not miss in the ballot.
Kisii Deputy Governor Joash Maangi has in an interview with Citizen TV seemed to praise Raila Odinga indulgence in Kenyan politics more so when it comes to his involvement in presidential elections.
What do you think should be done to curb the ever-rising political intolerance in the country and avoid a repeat of 2007/2008 and 2017 elections violence?