Kenya: G-whatever falling apart….
from odhiambo okecth
First, they held their meetings to plot the usual staff- Raila Amolo Odinga, and some key members were conspicuously absent- without apologies.
Then, Uhuru ran back to Kanu, Kalost revamped his ODM to something new, and, Saitoti maintained that his name will be on the ballot at whatever cost. Eugene has never been a factor and seems like he is not coming to terms with reality.
The big blow to this G-something was one William Samoei Ruto. The chap is smart and having seen that he had no future at this G outfit, he started drifting away slowly and leisurely. He was last seen having some good time at Dunga Beach and the rest as they say is...history. The man bought all the fish in Kisumu...but do we say...
Now, if this outfit that was basically crafted to fight one man can disintegrate, then, that will be the Best Gift from God to Kenyans this coming Year. Even God knows, the team had nothing to offer Kenyans.
Their only gripe was one Raila Amolo Odinga. They had no Vision for Kenya, no Interest in Kenya, no Direction to take Kenya to. They did not even want a new Constitution. And the other good thing is, Kenyans were reading and calling their bluff.
As we bury all these Parties that are formed to fight Raila Amolo Odinga, let us unite as Kenyans to support Parties that have an Ideological Backing, Parties that have some Clear Vision for Kenya, not parties whose leaders come together to stop another deserving Kenyan from the Presidency.
Long Live the People of Kenya and let us Cross the Bridge together as One People under God with The Captain ahead.
Oto
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From: john kibet
Subject: Ruto making up to Raila ?
Owuor,
Why don't we say that William Rutto is fully back in ODM. I mean, if saying that makes you, Omwenga, Maurice and the rest of ODM brigand FEEL HAPPY or makes it a New Years GIFT for you guys, I OBLIGE to that. But the question is this: Rutto asked of Raila two questions and I haven't heard Raila's reply yet. This just goes to show that you guys from the Lakeside behave like four year old who doesn't have an ounce of political sense. My job is not to open your eyes about that.
The Kalenjin's have moved on for all I know. They can't be hoodwinked like 2007. They don't have a problem with the Kibaki administration for all I know. They don't have a problem with Uhuru Kenyatta or Kalonzo Musyoka for all I know. What I know is that they have a problem with Raila Odinga and they won't vote for him come 2012.
I hear the likes of Omwenga say that the Kalenjin professinals are behind or support Raila. I haven't heard any name(s) mentioned at all. Nameless individuals are bandied around and yet nobody can't name names. What a lie!
Therefore, if Rutto is back in ODM (as you guys desperately WANT IT TO BE ), I wish him luck because his POLITICAL STAR with the rank and file Kalenjins is OVER! The typical Kalenjin mwananchi is so over with ODM that they can't wait for the elections to come. And if Rutto is willing to dig an "early political grave", he is WELCOME. Us in KANU are doing just fine. We know that we will be in the next government. Period.
So you guys in ODM can sing until you're orange, that Rutto is back. Who cares? After all, Rutto won't be in the final ballot come 2012. And even if he were in ODM, the Kalenjin's won't be with him. So I wonder what your excitment in ODM is. But anyway, you guys are so good at manufacturing excitements though. You are the masters of that.
John K
University of Southern California
USA
From: Owuor Willis
Kibet,
The truth be told, Ruto is RAO's man. You can call/describe RAO's supporters in all manner of names. Ruto is in ODM damu kabisa.
From: john kibet
Omwenga,
You always say that your views are progressive and yet you actions are no different than what Roger Ailes (the head of Fox News in America), has taught his journalists. Basically what they do at Fox News (Cable), is take a little of the truth and misrepresent it to fit into whatever agenda they have. They have no qualms about doing that on any given day.
You are no different with Fox News (Cable) because you take factual events, slant it and twist it to fit into an agenda you want. You don't even put a disclaimer that you are slanting the facts because you want to ADVANCE Raila's and ODM views in this fora.
There is nothing wrong for you to support Raila or ODM. It is your Constitutional and Civil Right to do that. But where you are wrong and intellectually dishonest, is take facts and add or omit some factual truth in what you put forth and call that the truth. That is why I never have respect for you. It is what they call "being unprofessional" in such professions as Law, Journalism ,etc.
This is what you said "...Five, Ruto went on record saying he is ready now to mend fences with Raila via his return to ODM and that says and means more than even the best spinners can spin." This is not true and just a blatant lie. If anyone can check on the link below that I provided, Rutto never said such a thing. I care less for Rutto, but I care for what one said or what one is attributed to. How would Omwenga feel if something that he didn't say, is attributed to him? He won't like it. So why not extend the same courtesy to others or just simply state the facts and appear professional even if he is not or has ever been???? I am truly amazed with this abhorrent CONDUCT from Omwenga.
I have never cared for Rutto that much, but to take or add on something that he said or didn't say, and ATTRIBUTE THAT TO HIM (Rutto), is VERY UNPROFESSIONAL, and CONDUCT UNBECOMING for someone who says he is a lawyer. That is having NO INTEGRITY on YOUR PERSON Omwenga!!!
For anyone to see what Rutto really said, just go to today's Daily Nation and read his quotes, reported accurately by the newspaper,--www.nation.co.ke/News/politics/Ruto+calls+for+tolerance+between+rival+parties/-/1064/1297012/-/gsqre6/-/index.html
Are you guys that DESPERATE to have Rutto in ODM that you can even go to an extend of patently lying to what he said, when the truth is out there in the public sphere???
Whoever runs this forum needs to have a conversation with you guys in ODM, who twist the truth and LIE OUT RIGHTLY to try to make your points. It seems to me that this forum has become a dent of pimps and truth-twisters. It makes me sad to say that.
John K
University of Southern California
USA
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From: Samuel Omwenga
Five simple but pleasing facts about this latest development about Ruto:
One, Ruto did not go to Kisumu to rally support for his presidetial run, if he runs.
Two, its not the absence of trashing Raila on his own turf that matters given it would be moronic for anyone to do that and Ruto is no moron but it's what he said that people here and elsewhere are predictably brushing aside as no big deal.
Three, it's a big deal what Ruto said.
Four, it is now an open secret and will be more obvious soon that Ruto's key allies, including many Kale professionals are themselves urging Ruto to head back to ODM.
Five, Ruto went on record saying he is ready now to mend fences with Raila via his return to ODM and that says and means more than even the best spinners can spin.
In other words, actions speak louder than any spin or words.
I doubt one will ever see Ruto saying, "My friend Raila; I am sorry I wronged you in lying about you and my efforts to derail your run for the presidency" but his actions or inactions will do all the apologizing even if he does not fully return to ODM.
Peace, Unity and Oh Politics, Politics!
Omwenga
On Dec 29, 2011 9:51 AM, "Kuria-Mwangi" wrote:
Roz;
He was in his territory and had to speak the language which can be appreciated there. Even Raila would have to speak well of UK if he visited Gatundu or well of Ruto if he was in Eldoret North. Lets us not read too much in this porojo ya Ruto. It was meant for the audience, telling them what they want to hear.
--
http://www.kuria-mwangi.blogspot.com
http://www.facebook.com/kjmwangi
On Thu, Dec 29, 2011 at 8:51 AM, roz kahumbu wrote:
http://www.nation.co.ke/News/politics/Ruto+calls+for+tolerance+between+rival+parties/-/1064/1297012/-/gsqre6/-/index.html
Ruto calls for tolerance between rival parties
By ABIUD OCHIENG’ aawiti@ke.nationmedia.com
Posted Thursday, December 29 2011 at 14:45
Eldoret North MP William Ruto says his differences with Prime Minister Raila Odinga should not result in animosity among their supporters.
“Our political differences should not result in violence. What is important is a Kenya that we are all proud to be part of, a country of peace and progress,” said Mr Ruto.
. . .
Saudi Arabia in the New Middle East
from Yona Maro
The United States' relationship with Saudi Arabia has been one of the cornerstones of U.S. policy in the Middle East for decades. Despite their substantial differences in history, culture, and governance, the two countries have generally agreed on important political and economic issues and have often relied on each other to secure mutual aims. The 1990-91 Gulf War is perhaps the most obvious example, but their ongoing cooperation on maintaining regional stability, moderating the global oil market, and pursuing terrorists should not be downplayed.
http://i.cfr.org/content/publications/attachments/Saudi_Arabia_CSR63.pdf
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Kuchangia Wahanga wa Mvua DSM +255786 806028 Kwa Airtel Money na +255767806028 kwa Mpesa
ICT for Environmental Sustainability
from Yona Maro
This report presents a VTT roadmap on ICT for environmental sustainability, based on the assessments and evaluations made by VTT technology experts. The roadmap is divided into three themes. Empowering people means using ICT to raise people’s awareness of the environmental impact of their actions and to channel their behavior in a more environmentally-friendly direction. Extending natural resources involves reducing the use of diverse environmentally unsustainable re-sources through ICT-based solutions. Optimising systems refers to minimizing the environmental load of diverse systems by optimising their operation. As a synthesis, four focal topics have been identified within the roadmap themes that are most promising for further investigation. These are: 1) environmentally sustainable consumption, 2) smart energy and buildings, 3) lifecycle efficient production, and 4) optimised and adaptive networks.
http://www.vtt.fi/inf/pdf/tiedotteet/2010/T2532.pdf
--
Kuchangia Wahanga wa Mvua DSM +255786 806028 Kwa Airtel Money na +255767806028 kwa Mpesa
USA & World: The Logic of Occupy Compassion
From: Chuck Watts
Greetings, progressive friends,
Thank you for our lively debate last night at the Progressive Happy Hour concerning the theme of my primary participation. If we are to win in the 21st century, it is important to embrace the latest insights of the brain on political discourse. "Political framing IS applied cognitive science," according to Dr. George Lakoff.
Here is an article by my consultant, Joe Brewer, that outlines the cognitive argument for using Occupy Compassion for the theme of my participation in the 2012 primary process.
Many of you (most of you?) are rejecting Occupy Compassion because it makes no gramatical sense and therefore cheapens my efforts and makes them ineffectual and calls into question your own participation with me. Mary Tom believes I have abandoned the need for good grammar or good word smithing, something she can offer, which saddens her deeply. My dilemma is wanting to use our mother tongue well AND apply cognitive science well. You lobbied very hard last night at the Progressive Happy Hour that I must add the word "with" to the above poster. I have tentatively asked my designer to add with in extremely small way using a very thin font to that it cannot be seen unless standing very close to the poster.
Cynthia, please send me both options, i.e. using with and not using with.
I offer this as a compromise and am copying my consultant for his views of this compromise. Meanwhile, I hope you will read Brewer's article and offer any insights of its efficacy on your feeling better about the use of Occupy Compassion without a "with."
A quote from the article that is pertinent to my theme's cognitive correctness versus its gramatical correctness is:
- "Yet we may not be aware that it makes sense to us as a kind of spatial logic, built on the conceptual metaphor of An Emotion Is A Spatial Container."
Also, concerning several of you pointing out that occupation is a military term and therefore unwanted, Brewer speaks to the cognitive reason why occupation is such a powerful and positive word. Here's another excerpt:
- "Note how the logic of occupation is profoundly different from that of war:
- During an occupation the use of military tactics to resolve issues tends to fail. Diplomacy and political solutions are what is needed to resolve conflict;
- During an occupation the death of civilians is an unacceptable loss of innocent lives. Civilian deaths are seen as unavoidable “collateral damage” during a war;
- During an occupation the role of politicians is to be humanitarian leaders, elevating human security in the region impacted by conflict. Politicians become military leaders during times of war and often seek consolidation of war powers that restrict civil liberties at home and abroad."
Brewer speaks to both Occupy frames, that includes 99%, and acknowledges its evocative power. He also goes on to say more about the Occupy frame, which I have chosen to use during this primary process.
- "The power of the Occupy frame is two-fold: (1) It is a verb that represents action taken by one who has power to influence the world, and (2) it demarcates an abstract spatial location that is scalable. The significance of the first feature should be clear — to feel one’s personal empowerment by taking action and claiming a space is deeply moving. One who can stake a claim to space has power. And that power gives them a sense of control over their destiny. This is the underlying motivator for collective action that has captured the imaginations (and bodies!) of protestors around the world, from Tahrir Square to Zuccoti Park."
- "The second feature is what allowed OWS to go viral and spread across the globe. The demarcation of abstract space, when overlaid on top of real-world physical locations, is a recipe for unconstrained growth. More simply, it is the act of claiming a space that offers a feeling of empowerment. While one physical location was claimed in a New York City Park, the concept of occupation could be generically applied to all physical spaces. This is why protestors in other cities were inclined to claim the OWS brand and stake out their own turf. And, just as the emotional experience of despair is conceptualized as an abstract space, the Occupy frame allows anyone and everyone to claim cultural turf by occupying democracy, love, citizenship, compassion, freedom, politics, and more."
Finally, Brewer offers seven actions progressives can do to take advantage of the occupy frames to frame our future debate in our parties. Also, my intent is to incite debate about compassion / empathy as the core value of any thing good that can come from public government. I truly believe that debate started last night and continues.
--
Caring citizens communicating American values are the solution to expanding liberty and justice for all,
Chuck Watts, Founder
Empathy Surplus Project http://empathysurplus.com
Empathy Surplus Project Twitter Page
Empathy Surplus Project Facebook Page
Empathy Surplus Project Google+ Page
Empathy Surplus Project Compassionate Action Network Page
We The People White House Petition - Moral Measurement Tool of Economy; Create a petition; https://wwws.whitehouse.gov/petitions/%21/petition/create-moral-measurement-tool-our-economy-gpi-genuine-progress-indicator-adopted-recently-maryland/RBm0kWh9?utm_source=wh.gov&utm_medium=shorturl&utm_campaign=shorturl
Congo: Elections, Democracy and The Diaspora Awakening
From: Judy Miriga
Folks,
I forward this email for information and action.
Congo people are thirsty and are in dire need for Democratic Rulership For the People and By the People....
Foreign Special Interest is deeply rooted and is conflicting with public interest, the reason why Congolese are paraded for slaughter houses whenever they request for democratic rights. It is sad that Abuse, Violation and Crime against Humanity is toll-order in Congo. This must stop urgently......
We demand that leaders of the world pay attention to the pool of blood and livelihood of Congolese flowing down the drain because of corruption and impunity and for the Special Interests "Intellectual Property Thieving" where Diamond, Gold and other Land & Natural Resource Industries for Special Interest are making illegal, corrupt and unconstitutional profits with modern-day pathetic slavery situation in Congo. Since Lumumba time, Congolese have been turned to special animals for slaughter by Special Interest Corporate Business Community who do not care for human rights. They invade and plunder mercilessly without due care because of greed for illegal wealth.......
This endless Pain and Suffering in Congo must end now and we demand true justice with Democratic Governance leadership be given a chance where support by all Leaders of the world must step in and come handy.......
I on behalf of the voiceless and many disadvantaged, join hands with friends of Congo call for Africans and Diaspora from all parts of the world to an Awakening intervention in Congo.......We also call on all good people of the world to stand together with Congolese and loud voices to call for this endless brutality of the Special Interest.
This matter cannot be left in the hands of Special Interest who have Special Interest to resolve and protect in Congo..........drinking from the pool of blood, poor souls and lives of vulnerable Congolese..........This is the reason why Lumumba was killed. We must not allow for another repeat. It is selfish, wicked and evil.........It must be condemned by all good people of the world and we must unite to save perishing lives.
I call urgently and appeal to President Obama to take a lead on world leaders to intervene and help resolve this bad standoff so order can settle in Congo over this election skirmishes which is now leading to a blast of Civil War........
I look forward to a quick and greater response which will bring peaceful conclusive resolve.
May God Bless us all,
Judy Miriga
Diaspora Spokesperson
Executive Director
Confederation Council Foundation for Africa Inc.,
USA
http://socioeconomicforum50.blogspot.com
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--- On Thu, 12/29/11, Friends of the Congo wrote:
Congo: Elections, Democracy and The Diaspora Awakening
The November 28th Presidential and legislative elections were fraught with tremendous irregularities and widespread charges of fraud. The National Independent Electoral Commission (CENI in French) announced on December 8th that Joseph Kabila won the elections with 49 percent of the vote and long-time opposition, Etienne Tshisekedi garnered 32 percent.
The Supreme Court validated the results published by CENI and dismissed a challenge to the results by the opposition, led by presidential candidate Vital Kamerhe. The opposition categorically rejected the results as fraudulent. Nonetheless, Joseph Kabila was sworn into office on Tuesday, December 20th, where only one head of state (Robert Mugabe of Zimbabwe) attended although 12 other African heads of states were expected to attend. Ambassadors from foreign nations, including the United States, were present for Kabila's swearing-in.
Rejecting the results, Etienne Tshisekedi announced that he would have his own swearing-in among the people at the 80,000 capacity Martyrs Stadium on Friday, December 23rd. Being under virtual house arrest, Tshisekedi was confined to his residence by the Kabila regime. The government also prevented the population from entering the stadium with a heavy show of force from the police, armed forces, and presidential guard. The regime blocked routes leading to the stadium with heavy tanks and artillery. Instead of a swearing-in at the stadium in front of a large audience, Etienne Tshisekedi had to perform the ceremony at home in his garden. In addition to domestic pressure, the government is experiencing intense international pressure; the European Union has said it will re-evaluate its cooperation with the DRC and make judgments based on how the political crisis unfolds and Mme Christine Lagarde, head of the International Monetary Fund said she is following the situation in the Congo with a particular focus on the rule of law and the political climate, especially the pre and post-electoral periods.
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is at a critical juncture in its tenuous march towards peace and stability. The Kabila regime suffers from a severe crisis of legitimacy and the future of the democratic project is in the balance. Stability will be fleeting without legitimacy. What is at stake in the Congo is not merely an election but respect for the will of a people and the future of democracy in the heart of Africa.
The Carter Center said the Presidential results announced by the CENI "lacked credibility," while the Archbishop of Kinshasa, Cardinal Laurent Monsengwo, said that the results announced by the CENI reflects "neither the truth nor justice." The European Union chimed in, noting that the process evinced a lack of transparency, with its missing polling stations and lost results totaling an estimated 1.6 million votes. South Africa noted that the elections were "generally OK," while the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the African Union (AU) found little wrong with the elections. Nonetheless, the CENI has ceased the counting of the legislative results and invited an international technical team from the United States and England to help with the counting of the legislative results, which are expected to be announced by January 13th - a constitutional deadline that will be difficult to meet.
Congolese in the diaspora have responded with universal outrage and have taken to the streets throughout the globe. Demonstrations have occurred in London, Brussels, Paris, Berlin, Rome, Johannesburg, Tel Aviv, Toronto, Montreal, Ottawa, New York, Washington and numerous other cities around the world. The central demand of the demonstrations is that the will of the Congolese people be respected. Click here to see videos of Congolese demonstrations!
Due to greater access to information combined with the freedom to express themselves, Congolese in the Diaspora have voiced the frustrations and concerns of their countrymen and women. The Congolese population inside the country has been under a military clamp-down with tanks in the streets, omnipresent security forces, SMS shut down (a major tool of communication for Congolese), and opposition television shuttered. Moreover, the Kabila regime has already demonstrated a willingness to use its armed and security forces to fire on unarmed civilians (see Human Rights Watch Report) and round-up and disappear civilians (see Amnesty International and Voix Sans Voix Statement).
The best option to rescue the country from a descent into a deeper crisis is the activation of a national mediation mechanism supported by the international community (Southern African Development Community (SADC), African Union (AU), European Union, United Nations and United States). However, political will on the part of the political class to prioritize the people's interests over partisan interests is a necessary prerequisite for this option to be successful.
Continue to take action and support Congo's pursuit of democracy:
"Our offices have gotten quite a bit of input from the Congolese Community in the US for which we are grateful." U.S. Senator Christopher Coons
1. Contact key world leaders and demand that they refrain from recognizing Joseph Kabila as President of the DRC.
2. Demand that the technical team from the United States and England assess both the legislative and presidential results.
3. Participate in teach-ins to learn about what is at stake in the Congo and the nature of Congo's democratic movement. (Click here for comprehensive list of actions!)
On January 17, 2012, the 51st anniversary of the assassination of Patrice Lumumba, Friends of the Congo and its allies will join in solidarity with the Congolese people by organizing a rally, teach-in and Lumumba Commemoration in Washington, DC and New York City. We call on our supporters and people of goodwill throughout the globe to join in solidarity with the people of the Congo as they continue the over 125 year pursuit to control and determine their own affairs.
Stay abreast of the latest developments on the elections by visiting our elections corner or follow us on Facebook or Twitter for regular updates.
Remember to support the work of Friends of the Congo!
Kenya: WATCH LIVE :- Kivuitu blames Kibaki and Moi…..He says chaos and Killings were organized
from Judy Miriga
This is really sad.......but, Kivuitu will bring flavour to ICC Hague over genocide of 2007/2008 in Kenya.
Kivuitu agrees that the election was flawed, but he announced it anyway and precided over Kibaki's swearing in at State House.....
Sad to say........
Judy Miriga
Diaspora Spokesperson
Executive Director
Confederation Council Foundation for Africa Inc.,
USA
http://socioeconomicforum50.blogspot.com
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Four years on...Samuel Kivuitu's reflections on 2007 election
Uploaded by NTVKenya on Dec 29, 2011
http://www.ntv.co.ke
He was blamed for the mayhem that rocked the country exactly four years ago, following the announcement of the disputed presidential election. He had to announce the results in a secret room under heavy protection from armed security personnel. But four years on, Samuel Mutua Kivuitu says he has no regrets about how he handled the election. In fact Kivuitu says, he would conduct that election, the exact same way, if he were do it all over again. The former ECK chairman, who is now being treated for throat cancer, spoke to NTV's Joe Ageyo.
@ogwemigo True, sad that he is so arrogant and unrepentant. God will judge him for all that. Thank God? for the new constitution and the provisions for the creation of strong and independent institutions that will hopefully put Kenyan interests above the elite's political interests.
sirjonduke 26 minutes ago
This is a COLD BLOODED killer with no remorse. He is? enjoying the blood of his victims. For how long will you enjoy the millions you were given?
nyangi77 29 minutes ago
Enzi Zao: Samuel Kivuitu
Uploaded by kenyacitizentv on Jul 13, 2011
Wako Wapi? Makala ya Enzi Zao inamuangazia Samuel Kivuitu, aliyekuwa mwenyekiti wa tume ya uchaguzi.
Kivuitu: Kibaki and Raila mistreated me
Uploaded by NTVKenya on Aug 5, 2009
http://www.ntv.co.ke
Six months after the electoral commission he headed was unceremoniously disbanded Samuel kivuitu is tonight sharing some of his reflections of the 2007 elections exclusively with NTV. Kivuitu feels badly treated by the president and prime minister but has no regrets. A much-relaxed Samuel Kivuitu spoke to NTVs Emmanuel Juma.
Kivuitu's Reaction to Kriegler Report
Uploaded by kenyacitizentv on Sep 22, 2008
ECK chairman Samwel Kivuitu reacts to Kriegler Report.
Kivuitu: Vote tallying was grossly flawed.
Uploaded by NTVKenya on Aug 20, 2008
Vote tallying was grossly flawed.
Kivuitu's turn in the dock
Uploaded by NTVKenya on Aug 18, 2008
Kivuitu's turn in the dock
Samuel Kivuitu says he did nothing wrong
Uploaded by NTVKenya on May 14, 2008
Samuel Kivuitu
SHOWDOWN - Kivuitu emerges from the woodwork - Feb 13, '08
Uploaded by NTVKenya on Feb 14, 2008
February 14, 2008 - Electoral Commission chairman Samuel Kivuitu wants an inquiry to establish rigging claims on the presidential poll.
SHOWDOWN - Kivuitu emerges from the woodwork - Feb 13, '08
Uploaded by NTVKenya on Feb 14, 2008
February 14, 2008 - Electoral Commission chairman Samuel Kivuitu wants an inquiry to establish rigging claims on the presidential poll.
Kivuitu Tries To exonerate Himself
Uploaded by bwanakeino on Jan 4, 2008
Kivuitu
kibaki swearing in
Uploaded by juicethedj on Jan 9, 2008
kibaki swearing in
Kenya ECK put on task on vote tally
Uploaded by juicethedj on Feb 6, 2008
ECK blamed
Kivuitu: "I dont't Know Where The Reurning Officers Are"
Uploaded by makozewe on Jan 6, 2008
Kivuitu: "I dont't Know Where The Reurning Officers Are".
Election Rigging: "A Matter Of Life And Death" - Kwach
Uploaded by makozewe on Jan 6, 2008
Election Rigging: "A Matter Of Life And Death" - Kwach.
ECK Kivuitu gets tribal
Uploaded by juicethedj on Feb 20, 2008
kivuitu gets tribal out of the closet
Kibaki Winner Kenya elections 2007 and sworn in immediately
Uploaded by nmugaya on Dec 30, 2007
Kenya elections final results; Kibaki wins and sworn in immediately
Martha Karua
Uploaded by ruffcast on Dec 30, 2007
PNU,ODM kenya election rigging, Kibaki Raila martha karua vote recount kivuitu ECK nairobi
Election Rigging: "Something Is Wrong" - Kosgey
Uploaded by makozewe on Jan 6, 2008
Election Rigging in Kenya: "Something Is Wrong" - Kosgey.
Kosgey pleads with ECK
Uploaded by ruffcast on Dec 30, 2007
Kosgey's pleas to ECK PNU,ODM kenya election rigging, Kibaki Raila martha karua vote recount kivuitu ECK nairobi ODM PNU kosgey nairobi kibaki fraud stealing raila kenya elections voting rigging KTN
Kenya: Message from Dr. Barack Abonyo in Kisumu!
From: Dr. Barack Abonyo For Kisumu Governor 2012
Dear Supporters:
We are here in Kisumu! Our grassroots campaign is about alleviating poverty, creating social justice, empowering ordinary people in Kisumu to embrace democracy and vote their voice. Its foundation is not of money distribution for votes, but the mobilization of compassionate committed men and women who together want to change Kisumu once and for all.
We are creating a pathway to democracy, from the bottom up by working with constituencies to identify with their specific issues and developing targeted sustainable strategies.
We will produce messages that are responsive to the concerns of the people in Kisumu County and be mindfully demonstrative in every aspect of our grassroots campaign. We want to be known as the people who care about the issues in Kisumu and come together to create viable solutions.
We will conduct an aggressive campaign to alleviate poverty in Kisumu. For forty years no significant changes to address these issues have been made, these problems can be fixed. Together with my team, I'm stepping forward to offer the voters of Kisumu a choice, Kisumu needs change and the time is now!
Will you stand with me? www.barackforgovernor.com.
We need your continued support, thank you.
Sincerely,
Barack Abonyo
Dr. Barack Abonyo for Kisumu Governor
Syria: Detainees Hidden From International Monitors
From: Yona Maro
(New York) – Syrian authorities have transferred perhaps hundreds of detainees to off-limits military sites to hide them from Arab League monitors now in the country, Human Rights Watch said today. The Arab League should insist on full access to all Syrian sites used for detention, consistent with its agreement with the Syrian government.
The Syrian foreign minister, Walid Moallem, was quoted in the Independent on December 21, 2011, saying that the international monitors would be free to move around the country “under the protection” of the government but would not be permitted to visit certain “sensitive” military sites.
“Syria has shown it will stop at nothing to undermine independent monitoring of its crackdown,” said Sarah Leah Whitson, Middle East director at Human Rights Watch. “Syria’s subterfuge makes it essential for the Arab League to draw clear lines regarding access to detainees, and be willing to speak out when those lines are crossed.”
A Syrian security officer in Homs told Human Rights Watch that after the government signed the Arab League protocol on December 19 he received orders from his prison director to assist with an irregular detainee transfer. He estimated that on December 21 and 22 approximately 400 to 600 detainees were moved out of his detention facility to other places of detention.
“The transfers happened in installments,” the official said. “Some detainees were moved in civilian jeeps and some in cargo trucks. My role was inside the prison, gathering the detainees and putting them in the cars. My orders from the prison director were to move the important detainees out.”
He said that officials who accompanied the detainees out of the facility told him they were being taken to a military missile factory in Zaidal, just outside of Homs.
The security officer’s account was corroborated by other witnesses. Human Rights Watch spoke with a detainee who said that a transfer of other detainees took place from the Military Security detention facility in Homs on the night of December 19.
The detainee told Human Rights Watch, “There were about 150 [detainees]. They took them out around 1:30 or 2:00 in the morning. These guys were in detention the longest. Not criminals, but people who worked with journalists, or were defectors, or involved in protests.”
A Homs resident told Human Rights Watch that he saw heavily guarded cargo trucks leaving the Central Prison and the Military Security detention facility in Homs on December 20. The level of security led him to believe that detainees were being transported out of the facilities, he said.
Another Homs resident told Human Rights Watch that heavily guarded buses were going into the military barracks for Division 18 and a section of Division 4 in the al-Wa’aer al-Qadeem neighborhood of Homs from December 20 through December 22. The high level of security surrounding the buses’ movement led him to believe that they were transporting detainees into the barracks, he said.
The terms of the protocol signed by the Syrian government and the Arab League make clear that the monitors should have full access to places detainees are being held. On the basis of the protocol, the Arab League monitors should have access to the military missile factory and all other sites where detainees might be held, Human Rights Watch said.
The Syrian security officer interviewed by Human Rights Watch also said that the government is issuing police identification cards to military officials. Human Rights Watch is in possession of a document that appears to be from the Syrian Defense Ministry ordering the transfer of personnel from the Defense Ministry to the Interior Ministry, which oversees the police, and deploying them to areas where the military currently serves “to avoid disorder.”
Providing police IDs to military personnel violates the Arab League initiative, which calls on the Syrian government to withdraw armed forces from cities and residential areas, Human Rights Watch said.
“Dressing soldiers in police uniforms does not meet the Arab League call to withdraw the army,” Whitson said. “The Arab League needs to cut through Syrian government deception by pushing for full access to anywhere Syria is holding detainees.”
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Kuchangia Wahanga wa Mvua DSM +255786 806028 Kwa Airtel Money na +255767806028 kwa Mpesa
Kenya: Miguna back as PM’s advisor- WHAT NEXT?
From: Tebiti Oisaboke
We Kenyans are funny and love making news everyday. All hell had broken loose when Miguna-Miguna was "suspended" from his constitutional advisory job to the PM RAO. Lots of things were said and circulated in and around the globe to justify his suspension. Mig sought legal redress to have his suspension quashed aside but the courts overruled him on grounds that he wasn't legally hired by the PSC. And today much to our consternation as usual, we're told that he ain't going anywhere yet and will be paid his full check from the day he was locked out of office even before the judge's ink has dried up. I know the chap could be celebrating in a big way for this glorious new year's gift. But, what is going to happen with the chaps who leveled him with all those allegations which have now been proved to hold no sufficient water? They called him all types of words from bullying his co-workers, abusive, arrogant and uncompromising guy. What kind of working relationship will be there between Mig and his "boss" Dr. Mohammed Isahakia? What about Carroll Omondi and others?
If these folks really wanted to fire Mig-Mig, they should have built a very strong case of which they could be confident to win since the days of eliminations which was a common practice during Baba Kenyatta and Nyayo's regimes are gone. These days its only the poor and voiceless whose life is squeezed out of their bodies by the elite rich drug barons and nothing happens to them. Mig is above the eagle's claws. These folks who "attempted" to witchhunt Mig-Mig should be ashamed of themselves and need to be fired for causing him pain and suffering, humiliation and above all defamation. I say this simply because they will never comfortably share a conference table with Migs. Or just transfer some of them elsewhere. What about the gentleman who was hired last week to take over Mig's position, Mr. John Kamau? Is he out of work now or are we going to give him a 72 month pay check for nothing because I presume, he had already signed a three year contract?
Remember these dudes serve on contracts and that is the legal way to still the tax payers' money. They get paid good with a 24/7 sentries assigned to secure their lives, free accommodation, paid utilities, transportation, house help and many other amenities which come with these massive offices. These folks should be placed under the PSCs salary scale since they work for the state. Its not fair to pay other folks more than others when both of them are on the same salary scales as PSs. These are some of the questions which need to be clarified just before Mig-Mig swings back to his office. Last but not least, remember the old adage, "ONE CANNOT REAR TWO BULLS IN ONE CASTLE".
TOI
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Click here http://www.standardmedia.co.ke/InsidePage.php?id=2000049065&cid=4&ttl=Miguna%20back%20as%20PM%27s%20advisor to read "Miguna back as PM\'s advisor ".
Kenya: Court of Appeal Declines to Quash Bashir Warrant
From: Judy Miriga
Folks,
This was the best gift for the Holiday Seasons and the 2012 best wishes......Keep up the good work good people......
We eagerly await to read report from ICC Hauge with relevant activities from the desk of Fatou Bensouda, as Justice delayed is Justice denied......and so, Justice must be seen to be done......
Cheers everybody.......!!!
Judy Miriga
Diaspora Spokesperson
Executive Director
Confederation Council Foundation for Africa Inc.,
USA
http://socioeconomicforum50.blogspot.com
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Kenya: Court of Appeal Declines to Quash Bashir Warrant
George Omondi and Agencies
20 December 2011
The government has suffered a fresh blow in its push for a quick restoration of diplomatic and trade ties with Sudan after the Court of Appeal declined to quash an arrest warrant against President Omar al-Bashir.
The Court of Appeal on Tuesday rejected a supplementary application filed by the State to stay a ruling issued by a High Court Judge last month against the Sudanese president.
The ruling delivered by Mr Justice Nicholas Ombija requires the Attorney-General and Internal Security minister to arrest Mr Bashir and hand him over to International Criminal Court (ICC) to answer to charges of alleged crimes against humanity.
"We are not convinced the reasons given by the deputy solicitor general are sufficient to grant a stay. The application for interim stay is refused," Appeal Court Justice Emmanuel O'Kubasu told reporters on Tuesday.
This means that Kenya remains a no-go-zone for Mr Bashir up to January 24 when an appeal case that State lodged against Mr Justice Ombija's ruling is determined. On Tuesday, the Attorney General's office downplayed the setback, maintaining that it was more of a technicality than a substance issue.
"We are waiting for the ruling to be delivered early next year with a lot of confidence. Although we would have preferred an interim order against the High Court ruling, we appreciate that the Court needed more time given the critical issues involved in this case," Attorney-General Githu Muigai told the Business Daily in a phone interview.
Mr Justice Ombija's ruling had earlier raised a storm, sparking a diplomatic row between Khartoum and Nairobi that saw the former expel Kenya's ambassador and recall its country's envoy within 12 hours.
Foreign minister Moses Wetangula said Kenya would also have lost a key market for its tea, coffee and other products if the state had not move with speed to appeal the case.
He told Parliament that Mr Bashir had ordered that all flights from Kenya be banned from Sudan's airspace, jeopardising tea worth $200 million among other goods that it buys from Kenya every year.
Also facing uncertainty in the country are hundreds of students and merchants who have established businesses under past cordial diplomatic relations.
Kenya is a signatory to the Rome Statute which established the ICC in 2002 but has opted, alongside the African Union, not to enforce the ICC's warrant of arrest against the Sudanese leader.
According to Prof Muigai, however, a sitting head of state enjoys immunity from criminal proceedings under the Rome Statute, a ground that informs an appeal case that the State has lodged against the High Court ruling.
Kenya: Journey to the ICC
23 December 2011
Nairobi — This holiday season Kenyans will be watching the International Criminal Court (ICC), awaiting a decision - expected between 23 December and January 2012 - on confirmation-of-charges hearings against the first three of six high-level suspects who allegedly bear the greatest responsibility for violence that erupted after the disputed 2007 presidential poll, leading to the deaths of at least 1,200 people and the displacement of hundreds of thousands.
Below are 12 key events on Kenya's journey to the ICC:
The Post-Election Violence (PEV): Following the 30 December 2007 presidential election results, then opposition leader Raila Odinga (now prime minister) and his supporters reject the declared victory of incumbent Mwai Kibaki (now president), alleging rigging. Protests degenerate into widespread violence with calm only returning after the formation of a coalition government in February 2008.
23 May 2008: The Commission of Inquiry into the Post-Election Violence (CIPEV) is set up and mandated to investigate the violence, the conduct of state security agencies in their handling of it and to make recommendations concerning these and other matters.
October 2008: CIPEV, popularly referred to as the "Waki Commission" after the chairman, appeal judge Phillip Waki, releases a report, which concludes that the post-election violence "was more than a mere juxtaposition of citizens-to-citizens opportunistic assaults [but] systematic attacks on Kenyans based on their ethnicity and their political leanings".
The report calls for the creation of a special tribunal to prosecute the post-election violence crimes. In late 2008/early 2009, attempts to establish a special tribunal fail. Chants such as "Don't be vague, go to the Hague" became popular, with most citizens expressing a distrust of the local justice system.
16 July 2009: An envelope with a list of persons who could be implicated in the violence and documents compiled by CIPEV is handed over to the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC), Luis Moreno-Ocampo, at The Hague. On 5 November 2009, Moreno-Ocampo notifies the ICC president of his intention to submit a request for the start of an investigation into Kenya's PEV. The ICC presidency issues the "Decision assigning the situation in the Republic of Kenya to Pre-Trial Chamber 11" on 6 November. This was followed by a 26 November 2009 request by the prosecutor to initiate investigations in Kenya.
31 March 2010: The ICC Chamber, by majority, concurs with the prosecutor that the alleged crimes against humanity occurred in Kenya, paving the way for the PEV investigations for the period between 1 June 2005 (when the Rome Statute ratifying the court entered into force in Kenya) and 26 November 2009 (the date of the filing of the Prosecutor's Request).
15 December 2010: The list of the "Ocampo six" is released. Moreno-Ocampo then requests the court to issue summonses to Deputy Prime Minister Uhuru Kenyatta, Industrialization Minister Henry Kosgey, Secretary to the Cabinet Francis Muthaura and former education minister William Ruto, as well as former police commissioner Mohamed Hussein Ali and radio journalist Joshua Arap Sang, to voluntarily appear before the ICC for their alleged responsibility in the commission of crimes against humanity.
8 March 2011: Pre-Trial Chamber II issues, by majority, summonses for the six suspects to appear before the court.
31 March 2011: Kenya challenges the admissibility of the ICC cases, arguing in a submission to the Court that as a result of the adoption of a new constitution and ongoing judicial reforms, it is now capable of investigating the six suspects itself.
7 and 8 April 2011: Ruto, Kosgey, and Sang - case one; and Muthaura, Kenyatta and Ali - case two - appear voluntarily before the Court.
30 May 2011: Pre-Trial Chamber II rules on the admissibility of the cases against the six.
30 August 2011: The ICC's Appeals Chamber confirms the Pre-Trial Chamber II 30 May 2011 decision on the admissibility of the cases against the six suspects as no national investigations are ongoing into the same individuals.
1-8 September 2011 and 21 September to 5 October 2011: The confirmation of charges hearing is held for the suspects in cases one and two, respectively.
The ICC, established by the Rome Statute on 1 July 2002, has been conducting investigations in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda, Central African Republic, Kenya and Sudan. Moreno-Ocampo is to be replaced by his deputy, Fatou Bensouda, when his term ends in 2012.
[ This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations ]
USA: Best Freudian slip of 2011 (movies)
From: Taras
"On the other side of the ledger, weighing success in purely commercial rather than arguably artistic terms, which films did the American public choose to support with their hard-earned dollars at the local multiplex? Only one of these favored films on the box office Top Ten– HARRY POTTER AND THE DEATHLY HALLOWS, PART 2 - actually drew strongly positive reviews and stands a chance of winning a few technical Oscar nominations. Other titles on the list of popular favorites (TRANSFORMERS: DARK OF THE MOON; THE TWILIGHT SAGA: BREAKING WIND PART I; THE HANGOVER PART II, and PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: ON STRANGER TIDES) counted among the most critically reviled releases of the entire year and stand a much better chance of winning Golden Raspberry nominations for the year’s worst achievements than they do of getting Oscar recognition for the year’s best." -- Michael Medved
http://m.townhall.com/columnists/michaelmedved/2011/12/28/mysteries_of_moviemaker_motivations
https://wwws.whitehouse.gov/petitions/%21/petition/create-moral-measurement-tool-our-economy-gpi-genuine-progress-indicator-adopted-recently-maryland/RBm0kWh9?utm_source=wh.gov&utm_medium=shorturl&utm_campaign=shorturl
KENYA: ALTERNATIVE MEDIA FOR UHURU’S CAMPAIGN IS AN IDEAL — BUT
From: ouko joachim omolo
Colleagues Home & Abroad Regional News
BY FR JOACHIM OMOLO OUKO, AJ
BONDO-SIAYA COUNTY
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2011
While the idea that Kanu is to take advantage of technology and the digital revolution to open a television station, radio station, run its own newspaper and acquire its own printing press, not only to give the party popularity but also to use it as a vehicle for Deputy Prime Minster and Minister of Finance, Mr Uhuru Kenyatta road to 2012 presidency, this is not going to be an easy task.
Although according to who owns Kenya Uhuru is one of the richest individual Kenyans, owning net worth-$500 Million invested in land alone, using this wealth in media campaign and to regain his lost popularity in Kanu would not give much impact either. This is also to consider that Uhuru’s name has been tinted in 2007/008 post election violence.
Again, given that Uhuru Kenyatta is the son of Kenya’s first president, Jomo Kenyatta, Kenyans will be too slow to elect him for fear that like his father he will take Kenya back to dark ages of his father.
Uhuru is heir to some of the largest land holdings in Kenya. He owns at least 500,000 acres of prime land spread across the country. The land was acquired by his father in the 1960s and 1970s when the British colonial government and the World Bank funded a settlement transfer fund scheme that enabled government officials and wealthy Kenyans to acquire land from the British at very low prices.
Apart from land, Uhuru and his family also own Brookside Dairies, Kenya’s largest dairy company, as well as stakes in popular television station K24 and a commercial bank in Nairobi, among other interests.
With his wealth Uhuru is also expected to pay the newly created party secretariat- Secretary for Information and Media Relations, Secretary for Environment, Wildlife Conservation and Tourism, Secretary for Education, Research and Technology, Secretary for Labour and Industrial Relations and Secretary for International Affairs.
In addition to the seven-member advisory council Kanu is also proposing to have a County Assembly Forum, which is an organ of the party grassroots level. It will have members operating from the ward level because county representatives will be elected from the wards.
Although the Daily Nation is the most authoritative of all Kenya's newspapers, providing comprehensive and balanced coverage of Kenyan news, arguably the most objective, independent, and unbiased in its news coverage, alternative media for Uhuru still remains an ideal for his campaign alright.
The Standard which is Kenya's oldest daily newspaper (founded in 1902) and the second most widely read, owned by The Standard Group, which also owns the KTN television station, and like the Daily Nation, it offers very comprehensive news coverage, even though it is considered to be more critical of the government and is perceived as leaning more towards the side of the opposition, unlike Daily Nation which is perceived to be in favour of PNU of which Uhuru is affiliated, alternative media is still the right move for Uhuru.
Business Daily is likely to be in Uhuru’s favour, given that it is also published by the Nation Media Group, is East Africa's premier business newspaper, focusing on business news from the East African region. If you are an investor like Uhuru, the paper is an ideal.
Kenya Times for example, became an ideal paper for Kanu during those early days of Moi because the party owned it. The newspaper used to be one of Kenya's top three papers, along with Daily Nation and The Standard. The newspaper lost its taste and was eventually closed following the introduction of multiparty politics and the subsequent defeat of Kanu in the 2002 elections.
The 27 year old newspaper suddenly shut down in early June overwhelmed by massive debts, rendering many workers jobless and unpaid salaries. The last issue of the Kenya Times appeared on Friday, June 4 2011.
Other newspapers include the East African, a weekly newspaper published by the Nation Media Group. It offers comprehensive coverage of news from across the entire East African region (Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania). Like Business Week, the newspaper also covers a lot of business news, even though is engineered with the East African community in mind.
Given that Coast Weekly newspaper focuses on tourism and entertainment news, mostly from Kenya's coast towns of Mombasa, Malindi and Lamu, which are also the country's leading tourist destinations, it cannot be on Uhuru’s favour. It mainly targets tourists and players in the tourism industry.
Although the People Daily could work on Uhuru’s favour given that it is owned by veteran politician and businessman Kenneth Matiba, the fact that it commands a very small market share, even though it was initially launched to challenge the Daily Nation on political news coverage, is why alternative media still an ideal for Uhuru.
The Nairobi Star could also be an ideal newspaper for Uhuru, however, given that it mainly carries Kenya's "juicy" news, mostly focusing on gossip about Kenya's public figures and celebrities, appealing to a younger audience who may not be interested in mainstream news carried by the other newspapers, and because it is owned by the same company that owns the Classic FM and Kiss 100 FM radio stations, the paper won’t sale on Uhuru very much.
Launched in September 2007, Like the Nairobi Star, The Daily Metro which features mainly on editorial won’t be an ideal paper for Uhuru. This is because, like Nairobi Star the newspaper targets younger readers and those in lower and middle income levels. That is why it sells at a lower price than all of the other papers. It appeals to people looking for a lighter read, and is aimed at younger Kenyan readers who want "easy-to-read" materials.
Even though alternative Print Media plays a major political role in Kenya, and like many other countries, has its fair share of "gutter" or "street" publications whose content is not considered mainstream or newsworthy, among them being the Weekly Citizen and Confidential, the fact that both are less authoritative than their mainstream counterparts, despite the fact that it often carry interesting local news that other newspapers do not find worthwhile to publish, these prints cannot have an impact towards Uhuru’s campaign.
Uhuru is yet to work very hard through his proposed media to convince Kenyans that a Kikuyu cannot be elected president as perceived by some section of Kenyans. He is again to convince Kenyans that he cannot take the country into the dark ages of his father where corruption, nepotism, intimidation, land grabbing was the order of the day.
On June 1, 1964 when Kenyatta became President and successfully had Parliament amend the Constitution to make Kenya a republic with his office becoming executive President: the head of State, head of Government, and Commander-in-Chief of the armed forces, only later that Kenyans realized that this was his trick to control Kenya.
It is against the background that on November 10, 1964, he forced KADU to officially dissolve and its representatives joined KANU, forming a single party. Through this tactic Kenyatta was re-elected un-opposed in 1966, and the next year had the Constitution amended to expand his powers.
Through single party politics Kenyatta consolidated his power greatly, and placed several of his Kikuyu tribesmen in most of the powerful state and security offices and posts. He used state security forces to silence any politician who was suspected to be a threat to his government.
Several murders of prominent personalities such as Pio Gama Pinto, Tom Mboya, and JM Kariuki took place during his tenure. These personalities were deemed as threats to his regime.
To continue controlling Kenya through his security forces is one of the reasons why in the 1969 elections, Kenyatta banned the only other party, KPU (formed and led by his former vice president, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga who had been forced to quit KANU along with his left leaning allies), detained its leaders, and called elections in which only KANU was allowed to participate.
On January 29, 1970 he was sworn in as President for a further term. For the remainder of his presidency, Kenya was effectively a one-party state, and Kenyatta made use of detention, appeals to ethnic loyalties, and careful appointment of government jobs to maintain his commanding position in Kenya’s political system.
Through single party system Kenyatta was again re-elected as President in 1974, in elections in which he, again he ran alone. This was because no Kanu member would challenge him. On Nov 5, 1974, he was sworn in as President for a third term.
When Kenyatta died on 22, August 1978 in Mombasa of natural causes attributable to old age, Moi succeeded him and continued with similar tactic of single party system until he was forced to introduce multiparty party system in 1992 which resulted into deadly ethnic clashes to avenge the Kikuyu communities in Rift Valley.
That is why when Moi proposed that he would be succeeded by Uhuru Kenyatta in 2002 the vast majority of Kenyans were afraid that should Uhuru take over he was going to use the same tactic of his father and Moi, so for the fear now.
People for Peace in Africa (PPA)
P O Box 14877
Nairobi
00800, Westlands
Kenya
Tel +254-7350-14559/+254-722-623-578
E-mail- ppa@africaonline.co.ke
omolo.ouko@gmail.com
Website: www.peopleforpeaceafrica.org
Meet Charles Feeney, $350 Million Donor – Yahoo! Finance
From: Tebiti Oisaboke
The 48 self made Billionaires in Kenya should emulate chaps like Mr. Charles Feeney, Billy Gates, Buffet etc and the anonymous Christmas donors who have recently bloomed up volunteering to pay off lay off items for needy families throughout America. These guys should at least learn to be compassionate and caring by sharing some of their looted wealthy with Kenya's needy families on such internationally recognized holiday season. Most of the billionaires in the world try to help the poor who can't afford even a gram of sucrose around this time of the year but look at those we have in Kenya. Who do they help or share their wealth with? They need to change their attitudes and help those who can't help themselves and this is the only way they can receive salvation when the Holly son of Man comes down to anoint the heaven bound holly ones. Millions of Kenyans are dying of starvation and hunger of which the government's PRO Dr. Mutua has vehemently denied on national and Int'l news medias just to cover their shame to foreign donors. They don't want to the quizzed about the funds they received in terms of donations to help the poor Kenyan people. Since the poor families have noway of accessing their donated funds, why can't these billionaires share some of their looted funds and help out the poor people on Christmas time? Some of them like Momoima R. Onyonka can dare loot CDF funds to buy sugar from Mumias of which I haven't heard whether he has donated even 1Kg to any family in his constituency for Christmas. This is very, very unfair and abnormal. People like this should consider themselves lucky to be engaging in such shoddy businesses in Kenya. If they were in the western hemisphere, they could be languishing in the joints for years. Case in point, look at what happened to the former Illinois state governor. Gov Rod Blagojevich is doing 14 years behind bars for corruption. He was found guilty for trying to sell Pres Obama's former senate seat in Illinois state.
The most annoying thing they have done is to hire a novice chap to cover their knuckle heads at the KACC. This is a very stupid Christmas they have given Kenyan poor multitudes. They cannot expect someone who scored an F in his last job ratings to defend the poor Kenyans against the economical crimes committed by the elites and the so called 48 billionaires. The MPs had put up a very spirited campaign and it all looked like they were working for the poor to block Matemu and Co. from getting through the front gate of Integrity Hse and look what happened when they voted? Hon Midiwo was wrong to petition against Prof Philip Kiluki from chairing the debate and see what we got now? Even the deputy speaker who is supposed to be impartial supported the motion to seal the deal. They kept wasting our variable time lecturing us about love affairs in the chamber instead of doing what we sent them there to do by hiring credible and hard working Kenyans. Parliament was turned into an English grammar lecture hall with every MP trying to prove that s/he knew the definition of the word PASSION. The only thing we have left to make things right is a "NATIONAL REVOLUTION", because these knuckle heads don't seem to get it regardless how much we cry or scream with our pain or dissatisfaction. These folks knew the public mood because they had read public reactions from our local dailies and yet they ignored it and went a head to confirm Matemu and Co for the jobs they aren't well qualified for. This is disrespecting their employer's concerns and all those who voted for them should be let go come 2012.
To my poor citizens, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!!!!!
TOI
PS: The war against corruption continues with or without Matemu.
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Your friend tebiti42@yahoo.com has shared a link with you.
Meet Charles Feeney, Cornell's $350 Million Donor - Yahoo! Finance
http://finance.yahoo.com/news/meet-charles-feeney-cornells-350-million-donor-161507712.html
The New York Times has unmasked 80-year-old Cornell alum Charles F. Feeney as the anonymous donor who gave the school a $350 million donation to construct a new technology-based satellite campus on Roosevelt Island in New York City. Officials at The Atlantic Philanthropies, the foundation started by Feeney in 1982, confirmed to the paper last night that he was the one who made the gift for the project, which is expected to generate an extra $1.4 billion in tax revenue for the city, plus 20,000 construction jobs and as many as 30,000 new jobs once the facility is up and running. ...
KENYA: THE BATTLE FOR GOVERNORS WHO WILL BE CONTROLLING THE ECONOMIC RESOURCES IN THE FOUR COUNTIES INSIDE LUO-NYANZA HAS KICKED OFF IN EARNEST
News Analysis By Ndira-Uradi In Kisumu City
WHAT is increasingly taking the center stage in the impending general election slated for next year is the battle for the four lucrative and powerful positions of the County governors under the new constitutional dispensation.
Those aspiring for the four positions of governor in the four counties, namely Migori,Siaya,Homa-Bay and Kisumu have already hit the ground.
The potential aspirants for the four seats have of late been seen criss crossing the full length and width of their respective counties while canvassing for votes, though the election is still twelve months away, an indication that the impending battle for the four slots within the county governance will be the toughest ever seen in this region.
And as the situation stands the battle for the control of the mineral rich Migori County is promising to be the most grueling he judging from the list of the individual personalities who have already shown keen interests in the seat.
Led by the administrative genius Kisumu Town Clerk Christopher Odhiambo Rusana who hails from Suna West location within Migori district, the race also involved other high profile political giants and heavyweights in the region it will also involved much experienced and seasoned politicians.
Rusana, however, has the best and most attractive track record couple with experience gained mostly in the in-service and numerous local; an overseas training in local government administration and management. He has served in the local authorities for close to sixteen years since coming out fresh from the University of Nairobi.
Rusana will face it off with one of the region’s political giant in the name of Prof.Edward Oyugi Akong’along time political associate and confidant of the late Jaramogi Oginga Odinga. His unswerving loyalty to Jaramogi at one time landed him into detention camp and later into voluntary exile to a foreign country in Europe after his failure to secure back his teaching job at the University of Nairobi after upon his release out of the detention camp where he was detained together with another radical politician in the name of George Moseti Anyona, the former Kitutu Masaba MP.
Prof Oyugi Akong’o who also hail from the Osingo Group, but is a resident of Wasweta West in Suba West Division of Migori district like his credible rival Rusana.
The two will face formidable opposition from Sammy Onyango, a chief account with a private firm of accountants and auditing in Nairobi. Onyango hails from Otacho area of Central Sakwa within Awendo district.
Also in the race is the youthful, industrious and populist Eng.Mrk Nyamita who hails from Central Kanyamkago location Rapogi Division within Uriri district. Nyamita is a senior manager with the Airtel Kenya.
Also in the race and busy campaigning is the administrator of Ojele Hospital one of the most flourishing medical faculties in Migori Town Joseph Ngao Ojele. Ojele belonged to Karungu sub-clan of the Jokonyango group in Nyatike constituency.
Migori County is covering five parliamentary constituencies, namely Kuria, Migori, Nyatike, Uriri and Rongo. However, following he recommendation of the disbanded Andraw Ligale Interim Boundaries Commission, the region could see three more electoral constituencies following the sub-division of Kuria, Rongo and Migori constituencies.
The number of aspirants for the governorship could be swelling up in the next few months with the possibility of two new aspirants emerging from the Kuria community.
This an area which is minerals rich, and also full sugarcane and tobacco growing and longest shoreline of Lake Victoria making it rich in fishing an fish trade. Migori Town which is expected to be the headquarters of the new County is only about 20 kilometers from the common Kenya Tanzania borders making the area a fertile ground for intra trade between the two countries.
Migori has minerals such as gold, nickels and copper. Part of the region has the most fertile and arable for all kind of cash crops and domestic food grains.
Reports emerging our of the neighboring Homa-Bay County says a dagger is drawn between the three leading contenders who included the immediate former Rangwe MP Eng Phillip Okoth Okundi who hails from Kochia West in Rangwe, the former Country Director of Marie Stoppie Clinics Cyprian Otieno Awiti from East Karachuonyo in the North Rachuonyo district and an executive with the Microsoft International Computer firm Dr Mark Matunga from Mfangano Island in Mbita district.
Others in the race include Prof Joseph Akeyo Omolo from Wagwe in Central Karachuonyo.The incumbent Rangwe MP Martin Otieno Ogindo. Rumors is a wash in Homa-Bay and its environs that the former Kenya’s High Commissioner to India and Namibia and a one time Trade Assistant Minister Lazarus Ombaye Amayo might join the race for the same position within the county governance. But Amayo who hails from West Karachuoyo is a still a public servant and has yet to make his position clear over these claims and unconfirmed reports.
Homay-Bay County, perhaps the biggest run through six parliamentary constituencies, namely Mbita, Gwassi, Ndhiwa, Rangwe, Karachuonyo an Kasipul-Kabondo.But there is the likelihood that the number of constituencies will be increased to seven with the sub-divisions which were recommended by the defunct Andraw Legale Boundaries Commission for the creation of two more new extra seats one for Homa-Bay and another on in Kasipul-Kabondo.
So far the cut-throat battle is expected to be between Cyprian Awiti and Dr Mark Matunga with Okundi likely to play the third position, perhaps owing to his advanced age. The popular saying is that the position of governor would be the most challenging and Okundi is considered too old and tired and need t take a leave from active politics. It will be a taxing one which requires energetic person ready to serve the public for long hours a day.
It will b an up-hill task for Prof Akeyo to beat Awiti within the vote reach two districts Rachuonyo.Akeyo the professor of mathematics at the Maseno University, however is credited for having handle the volatile Karachuonyo constituency CDF fund to the satisfaction of the electorate as its local CDF chairman responsible for disbursing millions of shillings to the needy socio-economic projects.
The arrival of Amayo for the same race, however, this political scenario would hurt Awiti chances more than anyone else, though the two Rachuonyo districts have registered more voters compared to four other constituencies so if the voting pattern could turn into clans, then a man from the two Rachuonyo districts will have his way through the polls.
Meanwhile another region where the battle for the governor position has elicited a lot of controversies is Kisumu County. Its area of jurisdiction include Nyakach ,Muhoroni, Nyando,Kisumu Town East,Kisumu Town West and Kisumu Rural parliamentary constituencies.
There will be one more extra parliamentary constituency as the result of the recommendation by the Legale Commission or readjustment and realignment of both Kisumu Rural and Kisumu Town West constituencies with the creation of a new Seme or Kombewa constituency or the residents of Seme locations and the Kisumu Town West which has created a new electoral area between the two existing constituencies laying west and north of Kisumu Town.
Those who have already declared their candidature to contest for the governor sea include the abrasive Sales and Marketing Director of Mumias Sugar Company Peter Hongo.He is an indignant man from the Jo-Kisumo group. He is said to be a head of the pack which included Ruth Adhiambo Odinga the sister of the Prime Minister Raila Odinga who is a sales executive with Odinga family business flagship Spectre International, which is managing the Kisumu Molasses plant, Jack Ranguma a former received manager of Muhoroni Sugar Company and the KRA, He hails from West Kano Kbura.And also in the race is Simon Ogendo an insurance executive in Nairobi who is also the son f the former Kisumu Mayor the late Ogendo Von Ponge. He hails from Kolwa Nyamasaria within the Kisumu Town East constituency. Others who are said to be eyeing for the governor position include the one time Minister for Water Development and Kisumu Town Clerk Ojwang’K’ómbudo. He hail from Lower Nyakach
The majority of he rsidents of the sugarcane and rice growing Kisumu County are I favor of the Mumias sugar man who they said as all what it takes to be the best qualification and reputation for the governor’s job. Hongo is poplar with youth and women.
Raila’ sister Ruth Adhiambo is treated as an outsider and being dismissed of being bullies and excessively arrogance to b consider or any elective position within the county governance.
O the Siaya side the ace for the County governor has yet to gain momentum, although the names of Joe Donde the former Gem MP and financial genius is frequently being mentioned as the most suitable person for the job. Other names include that of the immediate former Alego-Usonga MP Sammy Weya, and the Bondo MP and Finance Assistant Minister Dr Oburu Oginga.
Dr Odinga is a trained economist, and although rumors making the round sys he might also opt for the Siaya Senate representative seat. His performance as the MP for Bondo has elevated his personality, especially his handling of the devolving government funds including the CDF has made Oburu to score the highest marks among the current crops of Luo MPs. At the constituency level Dr Oginga has come out of his late father’s shadow and proved himself of a good leader.
Ends
Kenya: News from Dr. Barack Abonyo
from: Dr. Barack Abonyo For Kisumu Governor 2012
Dear Friends:
For some time I have been looking for an appropriate word to be grateful to all those who have chosen selflessly to support our quest to deal with poverty in Kisumu County. However, I have ended up with the same common words I could have said a long time ago. "THANK YOU COMRADES FROM THE BOTTOM OF MY HEART".
Sincerely,
Dr. Barack Abonyo
Dr. Barack Abonyo For Governor
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The Fight Is Bigger Than We
What we are fighting against is bigger than what one would describe as running for office. It can simply be defined as fighting a demon that almost stopped me and many of you from gaining our potential. As many now know, I am an Associate Professor of Pharmacology in a University in the United States.
If only the Save the Children fund did not come for my rescue, I would have never gotten a chance to be recognized by American Physiological Society and International Innovation Magazine among other achievements. Worse still, I may have never had a chance to help any child, educate many students in my field, contribute to the field of science and technology and now work on a variety of philanthropic and social initiatives in my country. Simply put, mine would have been a wasted brain. To tell you the true, this happens every day in Kenya and it is getting worse. Many brains are wasted and not only brains, many lives are lost. The reason for this is senseless poverty. And if one can think through it, poverty is perpetuated, it does not just appear.
It is our responsibility to stop the perpetual life cycle of poverty in Kisumu. No one will do it for us. We together as a people we must decide enough is enough.
Dr. Barack Abonyo Grassroot Campaign
Dr. Barack Abonyo grassroots campaign is about alleviating poverty, creating social justice, empowering ordinary people in Kisumu to embrace democracy and vote their voice. Its foundation is not of money, but one of compassion for the people.
We are creating a pathway to democracy, from the bottom up by working with constituencies to identify with their specific issues and developing targeted sustainable strategies.
We will produce messages that are responsive to the concerns of the people in Kisumu County and be mindfully demonstrative in every aspect of our grassroots campaign. We want to be known as the people who care about the issues in Kisumu and come together to create viable solutions.
Dr. Barack Abonyo For Governor
"Changing Kenya, One Leader At A Time"
USA: Servicemen; Payroll Protection; Congressman Turner;
from Chuck Watts; via empathysurplus dot com
TO: Congressman Turner & my email list of about 150 in your district
I got your email about remembering our service members.
It came at the same time as the news that you had withdrawn your compassion for their families and voted to end the Payroll Protection Subsidy to 99% of all Americans. It reported that you are keeping the subsidies to the 1% intact.
These are the family members of our service men and women. Where's your compassion for them?
It's immoral to ask our service men and women to protect all Americans when YOU are not willing to protect them during times like these. Caring citizens and their representatives are supposed to protect and empower each other.
Where's your heart? It doesn't seem to be for the 99%.
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On Tue, Dec 20, 2011 at 5:32 PM, Congressman Michael Turner wrote:
News Brief
Remember our Servicemembers during this Holiday Season
By Congressman Michael Turner
The Christmas season offers many opportunities to take part in holiday traditions which carry a great deal of meaning for many Americans. Each year, Americans from around the country gather in our Nation’s Capital to celebrate the season at two prominent holiday events at both ends of Pennsylvania Avenue. The lighting of the United States Capitol Christmas tree is an annual custom that symbolizes the national importance of the Christmas season. This popular holiday tradition originated on Christmas Eve 1913, when a 40-foot Christmas tree was placed on the East Front of the Capitol. It included the words: “Peace on Earth, Goodwill to Men.”
The importance of Christmas in our history has been apparent since the early days of the American Revolution. On the night of December 25, 1776, General George Washington and his army crossed the icy Delaware River into New Jersey, in a prelude to a surprise attack against troops allied with the British at the battle of Trenton. The subsequent American victory was a huge morale boost for the Continental Army and the American public, and a pivotal turning point in the war for Independence. One year later, after a string of defeats by the British, Washington and his army retreated into their winter quarters at Valley Forge, a week before Christmas.
Later, in an effort to reunite a nation still healing from the wounds of the Civil War, President Andrew Johnson unconditionally pardoned “every person who directly or indirectly” fought for the Confederacy on Christmas Day 1868. Through the years, American families have traditionally observed Christmas in their homes and places of worship. In 1870, President Ulysses S. Grant officially declared December 25th a national holiday.
We are fortunate to live in a country where our freedoms and rights are firmly established and protected. The responsibility of protecting these rights and for keeping our Nation strong falls upon the men and women who serve in our armed forces. Many service members spend holidays away from friends and loved ones.
There are a number of organizations that provide citizens with an outlet to express their appreciation and support to those who bravely defend the United States overseas. One of these organizations, Operation Show Our Love, was founded by Chris and Cindy St. John of Brookville, Ohio. Operation Show Our Love brings a touch of home to the men and women of our military by collecting items such as DVDs, magazines, snacks, chewing gum, toothpaste, and other everyday necessities, and ships them to troops around the world. The organization has shipped 4,001 care packages and over 111,506 pounds of goods to servicemembers in 28 countries and at sea. To learn more about Operation Show Our Love, please visit their website at :www.operationshowourlove.org or contact Cindy Millikin St. John at CindyMillikin@gmail.com.
As you gather with family and friends this holiday season, please take a moment to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas aside from the crowded shopping malls and exchanging of gifts. Remember in your prayers this holiday season our brave troops who are deployed around the world and unable to spend this holiday with their families, as well as those who are less fortunate here at home. On behalf of my wife and our two daughters, I wish you a Merry Christmas and a happy holiday season.