Emilio Mwai Kibaki might have won the recently concluded elections and sworn in immediately as a president of the republic of Kenya, but let us put simple thinking into use.
The history of voting as an arm of democracy proves that voters make choices. The choices are about parties; one party. This means, a party is voted all through in the councillorship, legislative position and the presidency. Having that in mind, Electoral Commission of Kenya (ECK) announced Kibaki as a victor with 4.5 million votes tagged with 36 seats in parliament. Raila Odinga had 96 seats in parliament that translated to 4.3 million.
It is now clear that, Kibaki had much lower than what has been announced. If Kibaki had at least 70-80 seats there would be a possibility of beating Raila considering the difference of population concentration in various regions. In this case, 36 seats whatsoever would not have reached even 4.5 million votes if it is not through rigging.
The resignation of four ECK commissioners too explained the magnitude of irregularities that are impassable. The EU monitors and the Commonwealth observers agree that malpractices were huge.
Kibaki should not cling to the notion that he won, yet, his 21 ministers’ losts seats to other parties lowering not only his strength but also the votes substantially. What does he learn from the remaining 6 ministers?
Riots countrywide are a sign of dissatisfaction of the citizens about the role of ECK in the previous elections. As a disappointment, Kenya army and Kenya Police have so far shot dead more than 200 fellow citizens. Was there shoot on site order?
Kenya at the moment has more danger even after these skirmishes. Notably is the undercurrent of terrorism that must have taken advantage of this confusion in the country and the divisions of Kenyans in tribal lines. Majimbo too, will not work in the near future of Kenya because everyone is extra sensitive due to the nasty experiences of having relatives or friends killed, property destroyed and people internally displaced.
These calls for urgency for psychological rehabilitation of Kenyans due to the anarchy witnessed. The Media on the other hand, should hasten the preaching of nationalism, respect of human rights, tolerance and mutual co-existence.
African leaders in the continent have a lesson that, when citizens want a leader out, no matter how the votes are doctored. Africans no longer waste time in slumberland; they tallying.
Light from the Unknown
From: Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
About me: I am a broadcast and an online journalist who admires photography. Currently, am working for the Kenya Broadcasting Corporation - English Service Radio. This blog mainly focuses on my opinion and a few stories I have covered.***This is not an official voice for KBC.*** Email me jardnimimi at gmail dot com.
