Debunking hustler glory not a dynasty attack

Last week, I wrote about the current fascination Kenyans have with the word ‘hustler’. In the article, I recapped several other articles on the matter and touched on my experiences as well. I explained the meaning, the understanding and the negative connotations that arise from the overuse of the word. The article was simply an expression of my views about the whole hustler-ism bandwagon.

Never in a million years could I have imagined it would be used to label me for a political affiliation. Alas! In the comments section of the Star’s Facebook page, readers called me all sorts of names and even asked how much the other party paid me for such a story. I had not forgotten that the term hustler was being used politically. However, in my article, I did not refer to it in regards to politics whatsoever.

As I scrolled through the comments, I realised three similar themes that arose from the discussion. First, not everyone read the article. According to some of the comments, the headline was enough to ignite them to protest my article without knowing its full contents. At some point, it felt as if some people were in it to argue for argument's sake.

It is unfortunate that even in a discussion, we somehow refuse to acknowledge the other person’s perspective or listen to their point before objecting to the points raised and bringing up our own counterarguments. Half our problems will be solved if we listened more and talked less.

Secondly, I was objectified as a representative of another camp and accused of sabotaging the opposition. I am going to let everyone in on a little secret: journalists are trained never to take sides. I have not and will never let my political affiliation come across in my writing. Most importantly, I do not have any political affiliations, never have and never will. My hopes and expectations of my country cannot be limited to one political party and their manifesto.

The idea Kenyans believe the opposite of the word hustler is dynasty is just sad. In the comments, I was accused of being pro-dynasties. I found it disturbing and embarrassing to think that our political ideologies can easily be divided into these two categories. The ‘us versus them’ mentality is what the politicians are milking to gain a following on both sides.

Lastly, from the comments, I realised how great the divide is. In matters of politics, Kenyans have always been a divided people, mostly along tribal lines. However, this time around, we have been swayed by the charm of the politicians who lure supporters with their promising manifestos and smear campaigns against their opponents.

I believe politicians incite Kenyans so much that we forget to see the big picture. Politics is not about a person and their political party. We have gotten so wrapped up in our politics and beliefs that we have turned everyone else into the enemy.

The comments foretold of yet another disappointing general election. Come August 2022, I believe we will still be at each other’s throats on these social media platforms, regardless of who wins. If we keep basing the desired outcomes of our country’s governance on political parties instead of our demands of the next government, we will always look for someone to blame.

I created this column as a platform to raise concerns on matters that affect the society and have meaningful discussions on the way forward, hence the title Society Talk. I welcome all feedback regardless of one’s point of view. It is only through open and honest dialogue that we can truly hear each other and respect each other’s position.

People often forget when the elections are done and whichever political party ends up in office, it is not the party and its supporters that will benefit. The winning side will represent all Kenyans.

Edited by T Jalio