With Kibera making headlines for the wrong security reasons, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga must now exploit his massive following to preach peace in the area.
The slum area was one of the most violent regions during the 2007/2008 post-election violence and now the recent anti-IEBC protests have created just more unnecessary tension.
There is always violence whenever the demonstrations occur and these result in bodily injuries, damages and loss of property. The Wednesday rally at Uhuru park saw the opposition youths get their weekly dose of tear gas which they had apparently missed on Monday. This is out of the point, anyway.
The point is, Kenya needs peace ambassadors and our politicians are among the most effective candidates. A number of humanitarian organisations have, so far, raised concerns that the country could be on the verge of getting into a civil war similar to the violence witnessed in 2007/2008. Kibera victims of PEV are yet to be compensated by the government yet here looms another disaster. Who would want that? Who would want a life filled with fear, loss and desperation?
I envy the massive following enjoyed by some of our leaders. However, I wish such privileges could be used to better our nation.
Ironically, political leaders are taking advantage of their massive support across the country to preach water and drink wine. For instance, when a leader says 'our tribe' is being targeted by certain forces, what should one expect? Definitely, animosity is given chance to sprout.
For the case of Kibera, Raila’s word is as good as the grand truth. His wish is their command. They listen to him. He must therefore use this opportunity to give direction to the youths. He must tell them, for today and for tomorrow, to shun any form of violence and crime.
One Kenya. One Nation. Peace, love and unity.