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Showing posts from October, 2024

The Judiciary is our hope and the last line of defence which is the giver of justice for all

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The judiciary is often revered as the last line of defense for civilians, the guardian of the constitution, and the ultimate interpreter of law. Tasked with protecting the constitution and upholding justice, it wields enormous influence. But recent decisions have raised questions, particularly around the judiciary's impartiality, its commitment to constitutional principles, and its role in times of political turbulence. In Kenya, the ongoing legal entanglement surrounding Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua poses a critical test for the judiciary. This saga has not only sparked debates around the judiciary’s independence but also has civilians wondering: why does the judiciary seem willing to bend the law to align with political winds? In democratic societies, the judiciary must act as a neutral arbiter, steadfastly upholding the constitution irrespective of political considerations. But when judicial decisions appear swayed by political convenience, people start question

Kamala Harris for President: Paving the Way for a Historic America

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In the upcoming election, the United States stands at a pivotal moment, one where history can be made and where the values of equality, justice, and progress can come to the forefront. Kamala Harris, the current Vice President, is uniquely qualified to take on the role as the next President of the United States. Her victory would not only be a monumental step forward for the country but also an inspiration for generations to come, breaking barriers as the first female President in American history. From the big cities of California to the charming towns of New Hampshire, voters across all 50 states are ready for a leader who reflects the diversity, resilience, and promise of the nation. Kamala Harris, with her extensive experience in public service and commitment to championing the voices of all Americans, is the right choice to lead the United States into a new era. A Trailblazer for Women and Minorities Kamala Harris’s election would be a watershed moment in A

File a petition rejecting the proposed amendment bill to the constitution for extension of term limit.Visit: active-citizen-ke.vercel.app

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The motion in the Senate proposing an extension of the presidential term limit to seven years is a direct affront to the democratic principles enshrined in our Constitution. By seeking to amend the Constitution without following the required procedures, this move not only undermines the rule of law but also threatens the very foundation of governance in Kenya. The term limit, outlined in Article 252 of the Constitution, is a crucial safeguard designed to prevent the entrenchment of power and ensure regular leadership renewal. It reflects the will of the people as expressed in the 2010 referendum when Kenyans overwhelmingly voted to limit presidential terms to two, with each term lasting five years. This provision ensures that no individual, however popular or powerful, can monopolize leadership for an extended period, thus allowing for a healthy rotation of leaders and policies that reflect the dynamic needs of the populace. The proposal to extend the presidential term limi

For the elected legislators to have independent decision making on matters presented to them in their respective floor then the electorate to start interrogating election of representative on independent candidacy

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In Kenya’s contemporary political landscape, there is an undeniable sense that elected officials, particularly those in the National Assembly and the Senate, have become entrapped by forces that compel them to affirm almost any policy or directive presented before them, regardless of its merit. One striking case study that exemplifies this is the impeachment debate of the Deputy President. This case exposed the deep entrenchment of political coercion, where political parties, intimidation tactics, and external pressures manipulate elected officials into endorsing decisions they might not personally agree with. The debate over whether to impeach the Deputy President was a glaring illustration of this political captivity. Allegations were brought forward, accusations of gross misconduct and violations of constitutional responsibilities, yet the evidence presented seemed flimsy at best, failing to substantiate the claims. The National Assembly's proceedings, which were mea

The Role of the Learned Class in African Independence Movements: A Case of Kenya and the Lost Voice of Modern Academia

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In the struggle for African independence, the learned class was at the forefront of political agitation. This was especially evident in countries like Kenya, where figures such as Jomo Kenyatta, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, and James Gichuru led the charge for freedom from colonial rule. These individuals were among the privileged few who had access to formal education, a tool they effectively wielded in their fight for independence. However, a striking comparison can be made between their generation and today’s intellectuals, who seem to have retreated into silence, passivity, or alignment with the very systems that perpetuate inequality and injustice. The Role of Education in the Fight for Independence Education, though limited and largely controlled by the colonial authorities, was one of the primary weapons that African nationalists used to challenge the colonial state. Jomo Kenyatta, who attended missionary schools before furthering his studies in England, used

Applause to Hon. Senator Okiya Omtatah for Defending the Constitution

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Hon. Senator Okiya Omtatah, a distinguished resident of Busia County, deserves commendation for his unwavering stance in defending the Constitution during the recent Senate debate on the motion of impeachment. In the face of a highly charged political atmosphere, Senator Omtatah remained a beacon of reason and constitutional fidelity. During the Senate discussions, Omtatah articulated a vital concern: the importance of following constitutional guidelines, especially when it comes to matters as grave as the impeachment of a Deputy President. His words were not only timely but reflective of a profound respect for the rule of law, which he rightly pointed out must be upheld above all political considerations. His worry over Parliament proceeding with impeachment without fully considering the constitutional framework was a warning that no democratic nation should ignore. Senator Omtatah’s argument serves as a true measure of leadership, one grounded in principle rather than exp

TRULY AS THEY SAY A GOOD DANCER SHOULD WHEN TO LEAVE THE STAGE

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In Kenya's political history, several leaders have emerged as beacons of good governance, tirelessly fighting for democracy, accountability, and the rights of the ordinary citizen. Their contributions have been pivotal in shaping Kenya's political landscape, particularly in the quest for multi-party democracy and the broader fight for justice and equity. Among these leaders are figures such as Hon. Mukhisa Kituyi, Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga, Hon. James Orengo, the late Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, the late Hon. Wamalwa Kijana, and the late Kenneth Matiba. Each of these individuals left a lasting legacy, although contemporary political choices have led to some criticism, particularly in light of ongoing issues like the privatization of the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA). Hon. Mukhisa Kituyi Mukhisa Kituyi, a prominent political figure and former Secretary-General of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), has consistently stood out for his