The latest survey by GeoPoll that captures the views of ordinary Kenyans on the causes, legitimacy, and impact of the protests shows that majority of young people at 31 per cent are not happy with the political class and want a total overhaul.
They are blaming the current and past politicians, both in the government and opposition, of polarising the country through insincere socioeconomic policies, massive corruption and tribal balkanisation.
With the political class having established a rhythmic framework for elite consensus disguised as national unity – government of national unity, post-election handshakes, building bridges initiative, broad-based government – the rift between the ruling class and the citizens continues to deepen.
While calls for dialogue and an end to the anarchy witnessed in the country over the past 12 months are paramount, the government must also safeguard the constitutional right enshrined in Article 37 that provides for the freedom of citizens to assemble, demonstrate, picket and present petitions to public authorities peacefully and unarmed.
State officials and politicians led by the President must therefore go easy on the latest shoot to kill, shoot in the leg and other violent forms of addressing public dissent. The government has enough resources and public support to deal with criminal elements infiltrating protests. Investigation must be swiftly conducted, followed by a fair but firm judicial process.
It must also urgently address the current socioeconomic issues such as high unemployment, high cost of living and corruption.
Quote of the Day: “History and experience tell us that moral progress comes not in comfortable and complacent times, but out of trial and confusion.” — 38th US President Gerald Ford was born on July 14, 1913
