Always before assuming an office, a person takes and subscribes the oath or affirmation of that office, in the manner and form prescribed by the Third Schedule or under an Act of Parliament.
Our leaders have been taking the oath of office by promising that they will uphold and fulfil certain requirements and obligations of a position that they have either been elected or appointed to.
Taking oaths of office is not only required by those who hold government positions but also by other organisations.
This has helped along the way of leadership in the interest of efficiency and effectiveness.
Politicians are required to sign and commit to the relevant leadership and integrity codes either at the time of taking an oath or within the seven days of assuming office.
Now that Kenya's new leaders forming the incoming government have signed and committed to a leadership and integrity code, the electorate is now assured of the leaders' promises for the five-year term.
Kenyans are aware that their representatives have made a public commitment to the duties, responsibilities and obligations associated with holding the public office and delivering all that is required.
Although over the years now, some of our leaders even after taking the oath of office still commit themselves to unnecessary crimes and hence venturing into bad governance.
The Kenyan leaders must always understand that leadership is not about the wielding of power to foster gain, but rather the welding of the people together to forge unity of purpose within their scheduled time in office.
Just as great presidents and other leaders noticeably served the people, and for the people, great leaders influence with the soul of service in pursuit of distinction.
Dear leader, are you willing to take an oath of leadership and then fail to abide by your promises?
If by either obeying or failing, where do you see Kenya in future? What goods should your government be remembered of?
This is the right time to deliver all that we, the voters elected you to.
Together, we must end the spirit that Kenya still grapples with many development challenges.
Student Maseno University
Edited by Kiilu Damaris
