- Here we are, one year since Raila died; and ten months before an election. And as the memory of Raila gets processed in assorted flavors, what he stood for remains true and requiring of action by all Kenyans.
It’s been one year since the death of Raila Odinga. 365 days without him, yet it seems like just a few days ago. Though still fresh in many Kenyans’ minds and especially in his family, one year has meant so much for the country and especially its politics.
In those short
months we have seen Kenya getting more polarized than before. Recent political
allies have turned foes. Partners have turned sworn opponents.
In those short
months, Kenya’s politics have more than ever been about money. Money has become
the currency through which a politician gets listened to. Those in power have
perfected the art of dangling the carrot to catch their desires.
The citizenry has
turned salty especially on social media. Persons that hitherto were civil with
each other are now intolerant; in a hurry to settle scores.
In twelve short
months, some of the young of the nation are confused about the future of the
country, torn between politics and real life. Torn between Wantam and Tutam.
Yet, the more
pressing needs remain and perhaps are now worse. Kenyans still complain of
inequality, unemployment, challenges in educating their children and for those
already educated, many still struggle with unemployment and underemployment.
Yet, here we are,
one year since Raila died; and ten months before an election. And as the memory
of Raila gets processed in assorted flavors, what he stood for remains true and
requiring of action by all Kenyans.
For a man who
fought for equity, democracy, freedom of expression and compromise when the
nation called, it would do better to honor his legacy in more than just words
and slogans.
Following his
first anniversary memorial in Bondo brings back memories of his life. Many
accused him of being a divisive figure. One year later, those at the memorial
were divided on how they chose to remember Raila.
Yet, there are
lessons to pick from the man who once lived; impacted lives and the nation. The
spirit of constitutionalism, rule of law and fairness. A man who championed
devolution beyond the 47 administrative units. A man who spent time explaining
why devolved functions ought to be followed with resources. Yet, we still
struggle with how much money to send to the counties for what functions. At a
time many Governors appreciate their role for the power and resources it brings
at their disposal, ignoring the essence of devolving both power and resources.
At a time that
many people remain disenfranchised economically, left to the mercy of those in
power. This must be corrected if the legacy of Raila is to mean anything.
Because the
ultimate measure of Raila Odinga’s legacy will not be the number of people who
chant his name, or the number of monuments erected in his honour.
It is clear that
politics of personalities remain part of our national political DNA. Must we
always find a political personality around whom to unite? Or can we finally
build institutions and a national identity strong enough to unite us without
one personality?
At a time those in
authority grown more averse to questioning, the best way to remember him,
perhaps is to take the questions he raised about our country and refuse to let
them die with him.
Because a man may
leave the political stage, but the ideas, struggles and unfinished business he
leaves behind remain the responsibility of the living.
That is my sense
tonight.