Why Kenyans Must Redeem their
Human Dignity
By Zacharia Chiliswa
E
ven though midterm reviews of devolution appear
They just cannot understand the value of consulting Wanjiku -
positive and optimistic, politicians, civil servants and
the common man.
the general public are yet to internalise the civic values
laid out in Article 10, of the Constitution.
Because the current political class has failed to create a social
Over the past five years, Kenyans have grappled with the
Kenyan people, many politicians still cling to the past.
model of open governance; putting the people at the centre of
infrastructure that ensures recognition of the dignity of the
decision making seems difficult to implement.
The mantra of ‘working with government’ seems irresistible for
National and county administrations are struggling with what
by agreeing to devolved system of government, Kenyans were
would be the best way to reach most citizens. Questions
saying no to political culture of clientelism – where merchants
have been asked on just what constitutes meaningful citizen
of tribalism and corruption run closely knit public tender
participation.
clientele.
What format of public consultation would best represent the
Those who still carry on with the culture of political clientelism
ideals wished-for in the Constitution?
cannot imagine politics without corruption.
Like benevolent monarchs, majority of those in decision-
By accepting devolution, the Kenyan nation welcomed equality
making positions have traditionally thought for, planned for and
of opportunities – where all the 47 counties are entitled to
delivered to the people.
equitable share of national resources. However, the civic values
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THE SEED - VOL 27, No. 10 OC