Dr. David Ndii, a political think- tank .(Photo/myaspirantmyleader.co.ke)
What is it in a word that elicits so much fear and trepidation in the souls of many mortals? Is the tongue such a powerful weapon that it can bring down institutions?
I ask these questions in the light of recent events where Dr. David Ndii, a re-known Rhodes scholar has found himself in the wrong side with the authorities over his suggestion that this country should be split into two.
From its face value, one would think that Dr. Ndii's suggestion is just that- a suggestion.
The government's reaction however points to the fact that words indeed can move mountains. There is clear panic mode to warrant such heavy-handed response to Ndii's 'harmless' proposition.
In so doing, the government has elevated little-known Dr. Ndii into a national liberation hero. Initially, Dr. Ndii was merely what the Luo people would call an 'Ochunglu'- a small, tiny insect. He could not be recognized in our streets.
By arresting him, the government has erred. It has elevated him to the level of a cult leader whose word is law.
The government has also remained with egg on its face as critics have used the incident to point out that it is out to reverse the gains made by attempting to take us back to the dark days when it was a crime to even imagine the death of a President.
We should always allow the Ndii's of this world to ventilate their feelings without fear of reprisal. We should be free always to point out where we feel our government is erring.
It would be a big tragedy if all of us will be forced to think along one line.
Let Ndii speak. Let Wanjiku shout. Allow Otieno to dance in the streets.Permit Kipchumba to run amok in the streets.Most importantly, let Long'olee jump wildly in the streets of Lodwar.
I smell the fragrance of freedom in the Kenyan air.