On Tue, Dec 23, 2008 at 7:43 PM, Amos Kibara wrote:

Whenever I hear Hon. Kajwang singing “bado mapambano” on TV and Youtube, and Karua correcting him in parliament about Jurisprudence, I have always assosiated him with reform but he has failed in the quest of reforming his ministry. I stand to be corrected if mine is an isolated case.

In October 2008, I innvited my mum to travel to US for my graduation which was to be held on December 12. She applied for the passport then, and as I write this, the graduation came and went, the passport is not issued out yet and no idea when it will be issued. The song at Nyayo House was, “come next week on Friday” and my mapambano man has failed in this kupambana na uongo wa his juniors.

I hate the word corruption and the vice itself, but did this guys expect a bribe to process the application, or is it normal for a passport to take 3months? My fellow Kenyans how long are we going to continue being oppressed under the watch of our government?

Anybody with some help or some phone numbers I can call for my mom to get her passport?

Sincerely,

Amos Gakobo Kibara

The just shall live by faith

Montgomery Alabama, USA

– – – – – – – – – – –

Date: Fri, 26 Dec 2008 12:13:46 +0300
From: dwambua@gmail.com
Subject: Re: I THOUGHT HON. KAJWANG WAS A REFORMIST

Don’t Delude yourself Amos. There are no reformists in Kenya. Just Opportunists.

– – – – – – – – – – –

That’s it Wambua. kenya is cursed! We have brilliant political theorists who believe they are better than anyone else. Give them leadership and they are tanatalised at the power they have. Look at Prof Kibwana. he went to parliament on a reform platform but became a sycophant par excellece. Look at James Orengo. He was before 2007 a pro-change politician, reformist. He promised to reform the Lands ministry. We are waiting.! Paul Muite was in Parliament for over a decade, a pro-democracy advocate, a 2nd liberation hero. I do not remember anything he did that made Kenya better than it was during the Moi era. Raila Odinga has fought and suffered for democracy and good governance. Looks like the PNU-ODM marriage has silenced him!

So, wambua we are in cycle of endless political circuses in Kenya. Shout “dictatorship, bad governance, corruption, tribalism”, get elected and immediatelt forget all these catchy words as soon as you are the wielder of power.

I say: Kenya is forever cursed wih lack of leaders. May the God Almighty help Kenya find a true, patriotic, selfless leader for us.

Mathias.

– – –
Date: Fri, 26 Dec 2008 18:13:25 +0000 [12/26/2008 12:13:25 PM CST]
From: mathias aguta
Subject: RE: I THOUGHT HON. KAJWANG WAS A REFORMIST

Kenyans are yearning for democratic governance that can correct the mistakes of the past and redirect the society on to a sustainable democracy.

The tragedy of our political leadership is the difference between managers and leaders. Our politicians, like managers, in any given situation work on things “as is” as opposed to the latter “what it ought to be”. They are adept at managing rather than providing leadership.

F or example, if the problem is tribalism, politicians will expediently solve it by strategic appointments of tribal kingpins as opposed to inspiring people into rational thinking which transcends negative social divides. Otherwise, how does one explain the tribal matrix at the top of all political parties in Kenya?

In the wake of the recent general election debacle, it would have helped for political parties to endeavor in their national party elections to respect basic universal democratic principles and practices in order to contribute to the general democratization of the society.

In a democracy, a political party’s philosophy and conduct is guided by democratic impulses such as affirmative action. Therefore, disenfranchisement of women and young people from the political party top leadership raises questions as to whether the parties are democratic and whether there can be democracy in a country without democrats.

In 2012, will they still parade women and youth like freebies in their political rallies? What is it with our political parties’ fear of internal democracy? When are we going see serious political party nomination campaign substance multiparty democracy is made up of?

Even with the advent of the new political parties’ law, are our political parties going to remain machinery for acquisition, trading and retention of power by certain individuals? When will the citizens of this country enjoy their liberty to free competition of state power?

Considering that political parties are governments in waiting; how do we reconcile their undemocratic conduct of party affairs with our hope for democratic governments?

It appears to me that if Kenyans are ever to satisfy the yearn for democracy; it is upon them as citizens and in particular as party members to compel political parties to become instruments of democratization.

George Nyongesa

Bunge la Mwananchi+254 720 451 2

– – –
Date: Mon, 22 Dec 2008 21:20:03 -0800 [12/22/2008 11:20:03 PM CST]
From: George Nyongesa
Subject: What is it with our political parties’ fear for internal democracy?

Yes Timothy and rest of Wanabidii,

Unless I am not fully informed of the legal implications therein, the deadlines so far been beaten by the ongoing party registrations and re-alignments are meant to secure only those parties that meet certain conditions by the said or set 31st December deadline. Indeed, many other so called small parties are now in the print media calling to the Registrar of parties to extend the time for another six months for without such an official provision, all others are locked out!

You know what Wanabidii, if there is a legal counsel among you or us who can be trusted, let’s kindly move very fast, collect contributions from us and file a court injunction on that deadline. Otherwise, we are indeed doomed!

AND DO NOT DISCUSS ANY OTHER THING ON THIS FORUM FOR NOW UNTIL THIS IS DONE FOR ITS CRITICAL – JUST TRUST ME! MOVE AND BLOCK THAT DEADLINE! OR LOOK FOR THE SECRETARIAT OF THE NATIONAL CIVIL SOCIETY CONGRESS AND INSTRUCT! MARKYOU WE HAVE ONLY TUESDAY 23RD, & WEDNESDAY 24TH, THEN, MONDAY 29TH TO WEDNESDAY 31ST! WANABIDII!!!!!!!!!

Vicky

– – – – – – – – – – –

To Vicky and all Other Wanabidii

And indeed you are may not be fully informed. And I have been to the Registrar’s office on this matters and I even purchased a copy of the Act just to clear things for my self

A party seeking registration will first pay 100,000, provide a copy of the proposed constitution and an office. Upon which it will get provisional registration. This will allow the party to operate as any other party but will not field members for public office. This is to enable it to get six months to fully comply with the stringent requirements for a party to be registered. So our six months counts from the moment we walk into the registrar and get a provisional registration. In fact our strategy for working early next year was to ascertain the numbers of parties that made it before embarking on registration.

The Parties that the Act found in operation for purposes of compliance and transition to the new Act are operating as Provisional parties until after six months which ends on December 31. It is those parties that were in operation before the act came into force and by Dec 31 have not met the requirement that will be locked out

But if we were to apply for a new party, we will get six months to comply with the rules. The Registrar also clarified that you do not have to get offices in all district but you just have to make provisions in the constitution that you will do so in future. I assume that will be possible after funding.

But if we were to register today for provisional license chances are we will have to miss out on funding. By the way all the parties may miss out on the funding as they have not complied with the 30% requirement for women (this does not make them get deregistered as the Women are calling for according to the Act)

Here are the stringent rules

* You must pay 100,000 for the provisional license and 500,000 upon full registration 6 months later

* You must have an office for provisional registration

* You must have at least 200 founding members after six months of provisional registration in each province (1600 members in total who are not in any other party. You agree with me an organized team of youth will easily get this numbers)

* You must have a member in each district within the 6 months

* You must have at least a third of all party organs occupied by either gender to get funded

* You must make returns on the funding, how it has been used and the officials

* You shall not receive funds from aliens

I consider these conditions attainable especially when we were to target 75% of Kenyans

If you get a person in each constituency you will have made the district quota. ECK was operating on 74 districts. Gazetted districts are actually just 44. District plus those politically created are somewhere close to 150. That’s why changes are being proposed that the constituencies become the districts. If we had 2500 people paying 1000 we have 2.5 Million. That will get us 12 months rent for 50,000 a month house in the leafy suburbs as an office and furnish it with the most necessary facilities. Then we will have made the 600,000 (100,000 for provisional registration and 500,000 for full registration 6 months later, and some change to do other things that we want to do.

I also consider it an opportunity as by getting registered, the progressive forces will have made a statement and will have a voice as only few parties will be in the scene as opposed to previously where even if you had genuine intentions to change the nation you were taken to be a joker trying to get some quick buck as parties were so many.

So that deadline is a kiss from heaven. If we are serious we should embrace it. If we can get our act together we can get to register early next year.

How would the political party Act bar registration of other parties when the constitution guarantees freedom of assembly and the constitution reads like something this ‘any law that is in contradiction with it will be null and void’ remember the Act is an ordinary Act of Parliament not a constitutional one which would require two thirds of the house to pass.

– – –
Date: Mon, 22 Dec 2008 15:20:47 -0800 [12/22/2008 05:20:47 PM CST]
From: nicholas oyoo
Subject: Political Party Act Heaven Send if we Play Wise

On 12/20/08, Kamau Ngethe wrote:

Aside with the manner it was conducted, PNU elections results show how insensitive my tribesmen and women, the Kikuyu are seriously insensitive on matters ethnicity. How on earth can one staff all crucial positions in a party claiming to havre National membership on one community. Is PNU a Mt. Kenya party? This is the biggest question many are left asking.

Party leaders – Mwai Kibaki (kikuyu)
Chairperson – George Saitoti (Kikuyu)
Secretary General- Kiraitu Murungi (Kikuyu/Meru)
Organizing Secretary – Maina Kamanda (Kikuyu)

What is the logic here? Where are the rest in the top leadership of this party or it is Party of Ukabila? The party is a mockery to ethnic integration which is a concern to all communities in this country.

I swear! my people need divine intervention from God. We are so blinded by tribalism that we cannot see sense out of anything we are doing. What a cursed community! Instead of uniting, our political leaders are busy widening the gap between us and the rest of Kenyans. at times some of us hate to be Kikuyu, because we ha tribalism. Should our leaders continue behaving like this we are likely to face trouble with the rest of other Kenyans.

But with previous reputation that Saitoti and Murungi carry with them, let us wait and see their destination. Both carry the baggage of indecisiveness, greed, corruption (Golden-burg/Anglo-leasing), fence sitting, tribal, land grabbing and change like chameleons.

Kamau.

—
Sent from my mobile device
James Kimutai Cherono
0735 191362 or 020 2171618

‘if you are not having fun… AND making a difference …… dig a grave.’ Teliwe
—
G Mohamed Jiwa

– – – – – – – – – – –

On 12/20/08, Kimutai Cherono wrote:

Oh! Am sorry you expected what else from the people that took part in last years rigging?

Welcome. This is what the Kenyan people felt and we cannot like you at this moment move to another party.

– – – – – – – – – – –

— On Sat, 12/20/08, Mohamed Jiwa wrote:

From: Mohamed Jiwa
Subject: Re: PNU Elections: A Mt. Kenya Party
Date: Saturday, December 20, 2008, 11:41 PM

sympathies

many tribes are in the same boat. not just gema. gema however grabbed power and held on in the kenyatta and moi regimes where they had a pact with moi. they swallowed a lot and are not likely to cough up.

we are all at bottom vulnerable to tribalism in times of stress.

is there anywhere in our history that all post revolutionary chieftains from all sides were able to agree on the idea of ‘kenya’ which as a geographical entity was a colonial legacy? is the notion of nationhood also a colonial legacy?

just questions to keep the analytical skills smiling.

– – – – – – – – – – –

Date: Sun, 21 Dec 2008 03:06:48 -0800
From: ckamauke2002@ . . .
Subject: Re: PNU Elections: A Mt. Kenya Party

Please answer this question. Why do we have an commander and the rest of suboardinates in the all armies in the world? Why are you a father ? Can you predicate how kenya will be in the next ten years? A simple clue Kenya will be more worse than Rwanda.

– – – – – – – – – – –

From: Victoria Kioko
Sent: Monday, December 22, 2008 11:01 AM
Subject: RE: PNU Elections: A Mt. Kenya Party

Wanabidii,

Right now the biggest pain I have is where the 75% of young Kenyan electorate both men and women will vote – the new Political Party Act deadlines has not helped in transforming the old party systems into the ideological structures we all envisioned after last year, neither does the deadline give time for the creation of ‘new’ ones. So you, the young electorates are not taken care of and are blackmailed to align yourselves once more to these old guard parties?

Is there any other party that all of you can now identify with outside ODM and PNU and do the Obama thing? You are all under blackmail once more, And so are the Women by gender perspectives!

Please someone talk to.

Vicky

– – – – – – – – – – –

Subject: RE: DOES THE PARTY ACT BAR FORMATION OF A PARTY?
Date: Mon, 22 Dec 2008 12:22:50 +0300
From: tkihara@ . . .

Vicky,

I’m not sure whether the ACT bars formation of a new party.

If it does WE ARE DOOMED as you correctly state.

Anyone who has read the ACT thoroughly? Any lawyer in the house?

Timothy Kihara

– – – – – – – – – – –

——– Original Message ——–
Subject: RE: DOES THE PARTY ACT BAR FORMATION OF A PARTY?
From: Victoria Kioko
Date: Mon, December 22, 2008 7:24 am

Yes Timothy and rest of Wanabidii,

Unless I am not fully informed of the legal implications therein, the deadlines so far been beaten by the ongoing party registrations and re-alignments are meant to secure only those parties that meet certain conditions by the said or set 31st December deadline. Indeed, many other so called small parties are now in the print media calling to the Registrar of parties to extend the time for another six months for without such an official provision, all others are locked out!

You know what Wanabidii, if there is a legal counsel among you or us who can be trusted, let’s kindly move very fast, collect contributions from us and file a court injunction on that deadline. Otherwise, we are indeed doomed!

AND DO NOT DISCUSS ANY OTHER THING ON THIS FORUM FOR NOW UNTIL THIS IS DONE FOR ITS CRITICAL – JUST TRUST ME! MOVE AND BLOCK THAT DEADLINE! OR LOOK FOR THE SECRETARIAT OF THE NATIONAL CIVIL SOCIETY CONGRESS AND INSTRUCT! MARKYOU WE HAVE ONLY TUESDAY 23RD, & WEDNESDAY 24TH, THEN, MONDAY 29TH TO WEDNESDAY 31ST! WANABIDII!!!!!!!!!

Vicky

– – – – – – – – – – –

— On Mon, 12/22/08, samokello@ . . . wrote:

From: samokello@ . . .
Subject: RE: DOES THE PARTY ACT BAR FORMATION OF A PARTY?
Date: Monday, December 22, 2008, 7:06 AM

Wanabidii,

Vicky has asked the lawyers in the house to look at the legal jargon in the ACT and babysit us through it. Can other parties be registered later or not? We are all ears. If the state wants to bar the formation of other parties, they are in for a rude shock.

Before I say more, I want to hear from a lawyer in the house.

Merry Christmas to Wanabidii in Kenya and around the world.

Sam O. Okello Jr.
President & CEO
Sahel Books Inc.
P.O. Box 6451
South Bend IN, 46660-6451
UNITED STATES
samokello@sahelpublishing.net
www.sahelpublishing.net
Reach us in NAIROBI at: 0715-596-106
Books That Keep You Awake Through The Night!

– – – – – – – – – – –

The deadline is for those parties who want to partake of the financial support coming up in the next financial year.

Otherwise, if you want to register a party, the sky is the limit.

oto

– – –
Date: Mon, 22 Dec 2008 07:20:41 -0800 [12/22/2008 09:20:41 AM CST]
From: odhiambo okecth
Subject: RE: DOES THE PARTY ACT BAR FORMATION OF A PARTY?

— On Mon, 11/27/06, ALFRED MODI wrote:

From: ALFRED MODI
Subject: No Taxation without Development
To:
Date: Monday, November 27, 2006, 3:03 AM

Hallo Joka nyanam,

Following what i posted to you this morning about Kisumu airport,I would like to further support Mr. Oketch with his call for No taxation without development.If you critically look at this point then you will see the sence why oketch arrived to the decission.

Kisumu airport has been existing before Eldoret airport which was only established during Moi’s rule and going with the developments and improvements done,all flights to Kisumu are now being diverted to Eldoret,what a shame to our long serving members of parliament.Just as they have been watching lake Victoria and our fish being robbed from us,they are now watching bussiness being directly transferred to Eldoret just because we do not have some strong representatives to speak for our development matters.Do you want to tell me that KAA were blind when they started the Eldoret airport project and ignoring improvements to the Kisumu airport which has been there and is not far from Eldoret.This is a big joke.Infact I am sure they are only pretending that they are closing it for repairs may be not to open it again.

Believe me Jothurwa jogi tieko wa, since without powerful economy we can not rise to challenge them in anyway.What we would be advocating for would be like toothless dogs backing to a well armed thief.Who is sitting at the top office of KAA? I know you know them very well and their game have just started.Where are our regional MPs, why cant they save this robberey. By just losing flights to Kisumu for one week,alot of income would have been diverted to Eldoret and who knows even if they will open it again because I believe the problem is not only with the runway but it will go deep into security structure also which will render Kisumu airport useless according to National and international standards.

Let us come togather and save Pillars of our economy before we are turned into dwarves of development.There are so many things in store that have been taken away from us talk of Kisumu Breweries, KICOMI, Miwani sugar mills is just struggling to survive though it is considered long gone.Our youths have been rendered jobless due to these actions and now they only turn to robbery and prostitution which later lead to their deaths.

Aywaknu jo thurwa kata kaen keto elamo to Rev. Otura otelnwa e lamo nikech machalo lwet jachien ma oselor edala mar Kisumo.We only need to mobilise support from all angles inorder to retain our economic pillars.By advocating regional development and more so Majimbo, all our money taxed from the much populated Luo community will go direct to save our region.Wayaw wangwa ne jokuoge mariek gi.They have kept Hon. Raila with politics and even trying to take over Molasses plant which even claimed the lives of our giants like the late Hon Robert Ouko and Hezekiah Oyugi….. why!!!!!! why!!!! all these to our fragile Luo community.Jomoko biro wacho ni an tribalist… let them say so long as it is to the interest of our dear people I do not care.Many have died in this course and more will die but we have to save our community come rain or sunshine.

Who is who in politics and government of today have failed us and we should not waste time politicking on these issues but tuckle them like a wounded Rhino so that those busy eating and betraying us should never have chance again amongst us.

Ero uru Kmano jothurwa to abiro duogo kendo bange mana kod wachni.

Long life Luos.

Mr. Modi Ayieye

– – – – – – – – – – –

— On Mon, 12/22/08, odhiambo okecth wrote:

From: odhiambo okecth
Subject: Re: No Taxation without Development; Time we wake up
To: “ALFRED MODI”
Date: Monday, December 22, 2008, 3:38 AM

Nyikwa Ramogi,

This time last year, we all had hope that Migosi Raila Odinga was going to romp home to victory and become the first Luo President.

He did win, but Kibaki and team Kibaki refused to hand over power to him. Kenya erupted into violence and our response showed that we were not prepared even for the leadership that we so much wanted.

Had it been not for the Kalenjins and their massive and violent response, we could have lost all. And this is why people like Ruto have the courage to take Jakom head-on. He thinks that Jakom is all talks but no action. And Kibaki is prepared to do the same in 2012 and hand over power to either Uhuru or Saitoti. It does not matter whether Raila wins or not.

Now with the benefit of hind sight, what must we do as the Luo of Kenya?

I bet we must all go back to our roots. We must unite and help our people. When Jakom talks about going back to till the land and make use of our own natural resources back at home, I do agree. But how do we do that?

Jakom must now empower the Luo economically so that we can take advantage of our land and the second largest fresh water Lake in the world. By just telling people to go back and work is not enough. It will not make people go back and work. The people need incentives, start ups, and direction.

Banks must be mobilized to give the people the needed loans. The State must also come up with grants that can empower the people. It has been done in Central Province time and again and it can be done in Nyanza. Remember the National Bank? Coffee farmers are always given rebates by the government. Why can we also not benefit from those rebates and incentives?

Jakom must start from there. Get the government to give the people money to start up all sorts of businesses. The Youth Enterprise Fund, the Women Fund et al.

Electric power must be taken to all the shopping centres across Nyanza. This is the preserve of the government and Jakom must ensure that electricity is everywhere in Nyanza. We must thereafter pay for our consumption.

Roads must be made all weather and motorable so that farm produce can reach the markets. People must come together and form cooperatives from where they can have some bargaining power for their produce. It is sad that mango at Akala Market can fetch as little as a debe going for Kshs 10.00 only! Our leaders must galvanize the community into responsible farming and selling for profit.

The government must initiate irrigation across Nyanza. With irrigation, the people will have hope for tilling their land once more. With this, we will ensure our food security once and for all. Currently, Ruto is massively enriching his people through his current portfolio. Me must not rely on rainfall. Modern farming techniques as those practised by Dominion Group must be the vogue.

As we wake up to all reality, we must look back and assess the quality of all Luos who have been in positions of authority. We must look at what they have been worth of to the community, for we must also compete for all the white color jobs. This is where decisions are made, and we must sit where decisions are made.

The late Hezekiah Oyugi absorbed as many Luos into the provincial administration when he had power. Owuor Onyango absorbed many Luos into Forestry Department when he was the Deputy Conservator of Forests. Samuel Ayany absorbed many Luos into the teaching colleges when he could. Raila has also given many luos prominent jobs in government. But the question is, what have these people done with these jobs?

The Rt Hon Prime Minister must now tackle the problem from the root; how many Luos at the grass roots are you absorbing into the armed forces, into the teching profeesion, into the nursing profession, into road construction, into supplies for government, into modern fishing techniques, into the transport industry et al. Do you remember how Matiba mobilized the Kikuyu of Muranga into the transport industry? What makes it difficult for our current crop of leaders to do the same?

We have George Okungu at Kenya Pipelines. Of what worth has he been to the Luo community? Zero.

We had Eng Oduor Jasper at KPLC. Zero.

We have Oduor Otieno at Kenya Commercial Bank. Zero.

We had PLO at CKRC. Zero.

We have had many Permarnent Secretaries. Zero.

Raila alone cannot do all for us. The people that he appoints to positions of authority must help him. What is it that the current crops of Ministers are doing to help empower the Luo? Nothing. Compare this to the Kikuyu or the Kalenjin? Just look at what they have done with PNU? That is the typical Kikuyu thinking. They do not care what others will say, and in most cases, it serves them well.

They get power and they retain it. For us, we want to think National before we even sort out our people. It cannot work. First sort out your people, empower them as much, give them good positions of power, have a solid baseline for defense, and if anything happens, the people will defend you to the last man. For they will have all to loose for you.

I bet it is time we all woke up and started supporting each other in terms of contracts, tenders, employment, empowerment etc. Only then will we win the war and take over this country. But if we remain mean as we currently are, we better engage in other things and leave the presidency to the Kikuyu and the Kalenjin, people who are ready to help each other.

Odhiambo T Oketch
Komarock Nairobi

– – –
Date: Mon, 22 Dec 2008 07:15:29 -0800 [12/22/2008 09:15:29 AM CST]
From: odhiambo okecth
Subject: Fw: Re: No Taxation without Development; Time we wake up

people,

Allow me to express my honest opinion on this media bill – I agree with the government, believe it or not, in my status as I parent (trust we have several in this forum) – the media needs to be censored on the immorality they so shamelessly bring to our airwaves and homes in the name of entertainment – thus contributing to the moral decay that has engulfed our society. How do I tell my childrent that it is not okay to do/say certain things in private/public when they watch/hear them morning, noon and night. Parents are not in a position to monitor what children watch or listen to as we are not with them all the time – believe you me – perverts are encouraged by what they see/hear in the media too! The media should be used for the good of the people, not for the mental corruption of children and the society at large. If the media have proved responsiblity, nobody would bother with gagging them. I am sure this is just a small bit of the whole thing – but this in particular concerns me. Its okay to tell us about errant MPs with their wayward ways – because we pay them (MPs), its okay to toboa about good custodians gone bad, but the media must check other media related issues too.

A nation is not just about money related corruption but it is also about the mental state of its people (read moral mental state) – Are we raising a morally upright generation with all that’s in the media??????????????

Have a morally upright day,

Gery

– – –
Date: Mon, 15 Dec 2008 03:04:22 -0800 [12/15/2008 05:04:22 AM CST]
From: Gery Wamucii
Subject: MY TAKE ON MEDIA BILL

– – – – – – – – – – –

Hi Gerry,

I support you fully. The programmes aired should legalized

Janet

– – –
Date: Mon, 15 Dec 2008 14:15:51 +0300 [12/15/2008 05:15:51 AM CST]
From: janet Ayieni
Subject: Re: MY TAKE ON MEDIA BILL

– – – – – – – – – – –

Hi all,

The Kenyan media really needs to be gaged.Did anyone notice something really funny this weekend??? All through from friday to sunday there was only one thing in the papers Media Bill.The media has let Kenya and Kenyans down and the have become an enemy of the state. There are certain aspects about the Bill i disagree with like the raiding of media houses and confiscation of their equipment.That should only happen when a State of Emergency has been declared.At that instance all constitutional rights are suspended.

The media should be the voice of society and at the same time they should also protect the image of a nation.For them to sell the images of the post election violence to international media that was very wrong of them.The portrayed Kenya as a failed state just to make a quick buck. Ask yourself how come we have never seen dead American soldiers in Iraq aired on CNN??? Did we see floating bodies of dead babies after Katrina hit???

The standard group and KTN have always been against the govt why??? just because of the raid??? move on what happened happened.Yes people have the right to know but some information is better kept undisclosed for the protection of citizens. And why are people getting so emotional when they saw Mutoko and Nyambane being arrested?? lets be serious what outcome did u expect??? you think the presidential detail would have let Mr Odhiambo anywhere near the president??? Do you think they would have let Nyambane anywhere near the president??? the media has very smart guyz and they got the kind of reaction they wanted from the whole fiasco. MERCY FROM THE PUBLIC.

If the media was very objective how come we have not seen them really analyze what is in the Bill and give its pro’s and con’s as opposed to just rejecting it and giving kenyans a very biased opinion on what the Bill is all about.

Mr President go ahead and sign that Bill you have my full support.

– – –
Date: Mon, 15 Dec 2008 14:57:02 +0300 [12/15/2008 05:57:02 AM CST]
From: Nick Wokabi
Subject: Re: MY TAKE ON MEDIA BILL

– – – – – – – – – – –

Even the elections, media was there covering every inch and gave us
results. right now we still dont know who won the elections yet they
cant step out and give meterial fact yet they have them in cameras and
audios or unless them is just mdomo!

period! they shouldnot turn our campaign for MPs to pay tax to media
bill thing. Mr president kindly sign the bill..

– – –
Date: Mon, 15 Dec 2008 04:19:17 -0800 [12/15/2008 06:19:17 AM CST]
From: ceeya
Subject: Re: MY TAKE ON MEDIA BILL

– – – – – – – – – – –

Nick,Ceeya and Gerry,

I agree with you guys totally. Kenyans are being taken for a ride by the media.

The “good media” should have put the whole thing in their airwaves, print media and radio for people to read/listen and comment openly.

In addition these guys had consultative meetings with the drafters of the bill they had an open meeting ,argued their case which was overwhelming rejected by Kenyans who were in the meeting(ask PS Ndemo) none in the media is commenting on this. WHY?

True to Kenyan, because opposing anything and everything is so fashionable EVERY OTHER TOM DICK AND HARRY are commenting on media gagging(yet have not read the bill),blocking roads and shouting themselves hoarse in the name of freedom of media.

The Bill could be bad but hello lets debate these things and see the pros and cons as Nick suggests.

Timothy Kihara

– – –
Date: Mon, 15 Dec 2008 15:20:59 +0300 [12/15/2008 06:20:59 AM CST]
From: Timothy Kihara
Subject: RE: MY TAKE ON MEDIA BILL – LETS DEBATE AND AVOID SHOUTING

http://blog.jaluo.com/?p=1729
Date: Sat, 13 Dec 2008 22:38:48 -0800 [12:38:48 AM CST]
From: otieno sungu
Subject: ECK rigging claims; necessary or too late??

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does the NSIS have a role on how we vote or just there to do black jobs?

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Date: Mon, 15 Dec 2008 03:19:56 -0800 [12/15/2008 05:19:56 AM CST]
From: ceeya
Subject: Re: ECK rigging claims; necessary or too late??

Dear Good People,

Are we going back to January? All these street protests? Now seven journalists have been arrested in Nairobi and tear gas is being lobbed to disperse street demos.

J

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Date: Mon, 15 Dec 2008 13:36:23 +0300 [12/15/2008 04:36:23 AM CST]
From: Joyce Opondo
Subject: Journalists Arrested

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On 12/15/08, Sebby Bey wrote:

Concerned

Is this happening today on Monday or this is a prior event? Update me!

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Today, this afternoon. Not long ago.

J

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Date: Mon, 15 Dec 2008 14:00:57 +0300 [12/15/2008 05:00:57 AM CST]
From: Joyce Opondo
Subject: Re: Journalists Arrested

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An idea whose time has come can never be stopped. how many will they arrest? Lets them have fun i guess .

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Date: Mon, 15 Dec 2008 11:11:41 +0000 [12/15/2008 05:11:41 AM CST]
From: alex adagala
Subject: Re: Journalists Arrested

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Kenyans it is time we change course for this country even if it means getting back to elections.

Kenya cannot retrogress this far with a Greedy Coalition Government in power. They have no manners at all. We need to wake up NOW

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Date: Mon, 15 Dec 2008 03:33:22 -0800 [12/15/2008 05:33:22 AM CST]
From: steve musau
Subject: Re: Journalists Arrested

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Well people a revolution is in the offing…and trust me i wouldn’t hesitate to point out need as to why we need to eject these guys out of our faces … bad leadership, selfishness, lack of vision, principles and concern for the electorate…

Norman Ondego Oddoyo

Tel +254722504420
http://nondego.blogspot.com/

I wanted a perfect ending. Now I’ve learned, the hard way, that some poems don’t rhyme, and some stories don’t have a clear beginning, middle, and end. Life is about not knowing, having to change, taking the moment and making the best of it, without knowing what’s going to happen next.

Delicious ambiguity.~Gilda

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Date: Mon, 15 Dec 2008 03:41:22 -0800 [12/15/2008 05:41:22 AM CST]
From: Norman
Subject: Re: Journalists Arrested

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My problem with Media; last friday when some media personlities were
being arrested for attempt of protest, those in the studio were ok
with themselves. why were they not wearing the tax T-shirts to show
singularism?

at the same time, the planned demo against MPs not paying was turned
into the media bill thing…..helllooooo!

Ms

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Date: Mon, 15 Dec 2008 03:43:46 -0800 [12/15/2008 05:43:46 AM CST]
From: ceeya
Subject: Re: Journalists Arrested

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Every kenyan is now convinced that we are moving towards HELL!!! , but now which is the best way forward? down our tools?

Can we have bwana Atwoli’s email or cell phone NO. and get his views…..???

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Date: Mon, 15 Dec 2008 14:47:56 +0300 [12/15/2008 05:47:56 AM CST]
From: Charles Mutiso Mutuku
Subject: RE: Journalists Arrested

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no body can stop change

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Date: Mon, 15 Dec 2008 04:17:15 -0800 [12/15/2008 06:17:15 AM CST]
From: nicholas kitua
Subject: Re: Journalists Arrested

*From:* martin odhiambo
*Sent:* Monday, December 15, 2008 12:23:59 PM
*Subject:* We Need to Rewrite Marriage Rules NOW

After sometimes she becomes hard headed.

Why dont we make marriages like contracts. Renewable after 5 years at owners discretion.

Odhis.

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On Mon, Dec 15, 2008 at 1:39 AM, caroline mutheu wrote:

i totally agree, two years max … but then again that essence of marriage according to biblical teachings ceases to exist … maybe people shouldn’t get married until they are completely sure ……….. maybe introduce fines for the unfaithful and prenups!

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On Mon, Dec 15, 2008 at 12:58 PM, James mwenda wrote:

Personally I also think in the modern world that we live in the concept of being with one person for the rest of your life is totally out of touch with reality. Can it happen, yes but it tends to be the exception rather than the rule. That is why I am also in favor of term-marriages. Just like life insurance where there is whole life and term life policies there should be marriages with term limits. it would work something like this. Since marriage is a legally binding financial as well as social relationship (Something that is not emphasized in the beginning, but sure as hell is in a divorce) the financial terms of the marriage relationship should be spelled out in advance. Things like property, potential child support and other issues should be worked out in advance. This makes people go into marriages with there eyes open, and will probably take some of the bloom off the romance angle. The marriage would have a mutually agreed upon term, be it three, five or ten years. If for any reason the marriage terminates before the agreed upon term the financial aspects of the divorce are already worked out. At the end of the term a couple would have the option of either renewing for another terms or disbanding the union based on the agreement made before the marriage.

My 2Cents,
James Mwenda.

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I think we need to be a little bit sober while handling some of these topics ! marriage is such a sacred thing actually instituted by God, for those of us who trust what the bible says. come to think of it 20-30 years down the line. our children we all be of single parents, will never learn to appreciate marriage since there will be no role models and not to mention how many people will be suffering depressions.

is it that we are trying to avoid responsibility, commitment or what is it with our generation?

try to figure out how your life would be today if you came from a family of such contracts. marriage is good and let me assure you it can be fun, satisfying and a worthy venture. it all depends on us. lets not take it as a performance contract coz that’s not what its meant to be.

my opinion

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Date: Mon, 15 Dec 2008 13:14:01 +0300 [12/15/2008 04:14:01 AM CST]
From: Sally Kirika
Subject: Re: We Need to Rewrite Marriage Rules NOW

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On 12/15/08, john mwangi wrote:

hie all i think whoever brought this up is about to get married but the friends and pals are making him/her think otherwise. anyway i would say that if its about contract its not Christian you all know when, those who are joined in holy matrimony can go on their separate ways. Further to that why on contract that is cheap sex.

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John Mwangi,

sorry but you totally missed the point here, its not about religion neither about sex, to me its about preference, what i want in my short life, and what i know suits me to make my life sweet. Hope you know that only change lasts forever!

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Date: Mon, 15 Dec 2008 13:19:56 +0300 [12/15/2008 04:19:56 AM CST]
From: Franklyne Terewa
Subject: Re: We Need to Rewrite Marriage Rules NOW

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What has this world come to, God is watching you people.

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Date: Mon, 15 Dec 2008 02:25:00 -0800 [12/15/2008 04:25:00 AM CST]
From: quinoya diemo
Subject: Re: We Need to Rewrite Marriage Rules NOW

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One week ago, i watched my parents celebrate their 40 years anniversary in marriage. What a joy it was as they remembered their long walk together; in sickness and in health, in poverty and in riches, for good and for bad. Indeed they were the envy of of us all. So the question that came to mind was; so what difference exists between their generation and ours that they held family with high esteem, knowing it is the foundation of the society. They treasured and esteemed moral values, and were committed to the basic values that are only a dream in our generation. When the family is divided, so is the society and the country. That is why we hear of shootings in schools and nearer home child/infant rapes being rampant. Where are the morals that we are to pass on to our children?

A generation when same sex marriage is upheld, where gays are appointed as pastors and bishops in churches. No difference i would think with the times of sodom and gomorrah. Because we have thrown off the window the basic moral values that are the foundation of the society, in embrace of westernization. My guess is that if God does not punish us, then he better apologize to sodom and gomorrah.

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Date: Mon, 15 Dec 2008 12:27:30 +0200 [12/15/2008 04:27:30 AM CST]
From: James Nganga
Subject: Re: We Need to Rewrite Marriage Rules NOW

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Why go for the contract? Get a come-we-stay, whenever you get bored, go your separate ways…? Why insist on getting married and watering down the significance of marriage?

On Mon, Dec 15, 2008 at 1:38 PM, wrote:

I believe it is called marriage because it is supposed to last for the rest of your lives.

It is like any contract except that the rules are for life. It is difficult yes but that’s just what it is. Why do people always want the easy way out. Can you imagine yourself telling your grandchildren the story of how you have been with your spouse all the years despite the obstacles? Can you imagine the sense of achievement that you were able to overcome the little temptations in life to be with the one you love? We all just want to take, take, take and not give fully. If we gave as much as we took, marriage would definitely have relevance in today’s society but sadly it is waning.

Marriage is for life and if you want a contract, call it something else. I’m sure there is a court out there that will allow you to do so.

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Date: Mon, 15 Dec 2008 13:47:34 +0300 [12/15/2008 04:47:34 AM CST]
From: Phares Kariuki
Subject: Re: We Need to Rewrite Marriage Rules NOW

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Please… spare us this one, don’t blame the law for being not willing to

marry

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Date: Mon, 15 Dec 2008 14:02:12 +0300 [12/15/2008 05:02:12 AM CST]
From: jensdy
Subject: Re: We Need to Rewrite Marriage Rules NOW

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James,

Who started this issue of marriage? And when?

What were the terms then?

You see james, its only the creator who can do the modification of his product.

Do you have answers to the above questions?

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Date: Mon, 15 Dec 2008 14:01:01 +0300 [12/15/2008 05:01:01 AM CST]
From: jensdy
Subject: Re: We Need to Rewrite Marriage Rules NOW

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Linda and Diemo,

I share in with your sentiments, marriage is for a lifetime guys. Frank and others look back at your lives. If you come from a single parent home, pole sana. But if you come from a home where your mum and dad raised you up, what message are you sending us? I would request you to go and share this with your parents, if they are still alive to break up since to you marriage makes no sense…tell them to separate and that you’re sorry they stayed together and brought you up in such a home!!!! That all their efforts to stay together despite the challenges are meaningless and of no value to you.

It seems you talk from a point where either you’ve been heartbroken or your dreams disappointed. I however would like to encourage you to know that after the rain, there is a beautiful rainbow and you can live a rewarding, rich, deep, meaningful and satisfying marriage life…it all starts with you…watch your thoughts and attitude towards marriage….and your company..what they say about marriage….we all need someone to stand by us through the tough times and someone to encourage us when faced with challenging moments, someone to care for and who’d care back, someone to love and love us back, to fight with every battle in life, a life companion…..Check again before you say that marriage should be redefined…..for who and why and how?

If you want it redefined, please start the process but not airing your frustrations over this forum…we’re respectable men and women who esteem this institution. Everybody needs just some little love to prosper and the need to know you’re loved and you presence on earth is of value to humanity…..that is all we ever care for in life…..

I finish with a quote “the happiest of people are not necessarily those who have everything in life, but those who can do with what they have and appreciate the little things they have”
” The best things in life are free ….. happiness, health, joy and laughter”

My take, sorry if I was too harsh…

Regards
Josiah

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Date: Mon, 15 Dec 2008 14:12:34 +0300 [12/15/2008 05:12:34 AM CST]
From: josiah ogalo
Subject: Re: We Need to Rewrite Marriage Rules NOW

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Josiah,

Thanks for the good word, there is no excuse for what the people here are advocating. We all know what the bible says regarding the same so whoever chooses the ways of the world is an enemy to God and judgement day is coming people everyone will stand and give account of their lives to God and God will not ask you which generation you were born in His word is all that will matter. Lets get serious guys.

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Date: Mon, 15 Dec 2008 03:32:44 -0800 [12/15/2008 05:32:44 AM CST]
From: quinoya diemo
Subject: Re: We Need to Rewrite Marriage Rules NOW

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God started the whole issue of marriage in the garden of eden, right from Genesis (for those of us who believe in the holy bible). To recap, God created Adam, and from his rib, he formed Eve (while Adam was asleep). When Adam awoke and saw Eve, he said, she is bone of my bone and fresh of my flesh. She will be called Woman.

Clearly, this shows that sexuality is not an accident by nature but a gift from God. Terms; procreating and dominion.

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Date: Mon, 15 Dec 2008 13:37:39 +0200 [12/15/2008 05:37:39 AM CST]
From: James Nganga
Subject: Re: We Need to Rewrite Marriage Rules NOW

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Who can predict how the person you are going to marry is going to change five, ten or fifteen years down the road? Marriage is life’s biggest trap. The personality of the woman you initially married may not even exist. Times change and people change, yet a person is expected to put up with all their patners nuisances for the sake of matriamony, NOT!

James Mwenda

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Date: Mon, 15 Dec 2008 03:44:51 -0800 [12/15/2008 05:44:51 AM CST]
From: James mwenda
Subject: Re: We Need to Rewrite Marriage Rules NOW

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Mwenda,

Who says life is bliss living with you? Perhaps the problem is that you are difficult to live with, and your partner stomachs it, which changes their character? Why do people always assume that they are the ‘perfect marriage partner?’ Don’t be so trigger happy, do what you can to and work at your marriage. Perhaps she’s always angry because of some idiosyncrasies you have and is just sick and tired of raising them with you? It takes two to tango.

I’m not attacking Mwenda here by the way, just that too many times I have noticed people complain that their partners have changed… Behaviour’s do change, but people basically do not, perhaps the good of the new character elements that have formed should be glorified? If he/she’s stopped working 16 hrs a day, he/she’s spending more time with the family? You may not have as much money but the problem is the partner will be called ‘lazy’ with someone wanting the best of both… you can’t have your cake and eat it… me thinks…

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Date: Mon, 15 Dec 2008 14:53:13 +0300 [12/15/2008 05:53:13 AM CST]
From: Phares Kariuki
Subject: Re: We Need to Rewrite Marriage Rules NOW

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Marriage is more like waking up every morning and going to work. It is never easy, at times your body just has no ounce of strenght, but there is that driving force that keeps you moving. Even when the work environment is not good, you keep working and trying to make things better (as far as you can). So is marriage, keep working at it, keep giving it your best. Only for unfaithfulness are you supposed to divorce (according to the good book-bible). Or in the case of being abused (categorized under a non-christian spouse leaving). Otherwise, if you leave her/him for other reasons, then you should not re-marry but remain single. According to God, you will still be married to your wife/husband, and having another by the side will be adultery.

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Date: Mon, 15 Dec 2008 14:08:46 +0200 [12/15/2008 06:08:46 AM CST]
From: James Nganga
Subject: Re: We Need to Rewrite Marriage Rules NOW

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I know some of you will come to me with quotes from the Bible, don’t get me wrong i am such a believer,but why should i suffer in silence when i am fed up with the marriage,we are human beings and we like the best for us,that is why we change cars that we once liked and now we don’t ,cos of one reason or another,if the car is still fine i guess we will trudge on with it,if you are fed up with a certain house that you once so loved,you search for another that will make you more comfy and happier,don’t get me wrong we are human beings and i know that material things can be changed,why NOT our mental,physical and emotional happiness? i don’t buy the ’till death do us apart business’How can u guarantee that you will love someone till you die?and how long is forever?how in the hell are you supposed to know how you gonna feel in five ten twenty years from now unless you are clairvoyant?I mean should you feel bad because your feelings change?Hell maybe we weren’t meant to stay with one person forever!Any way i wil
l do a contract which ever way, legally or not.

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Date: Mon, 15 Dec 2008 04:12:51 -0800 [12/15/2008 06:12:51 AM CST]
From: mercy kivanda
Subject: Re: We Need to Rewrite Marriage Rules NOW

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James Mwendwa,

This is why, God should be the author of your marriage for He never changes He is the same yesterday, today and forever and no matter what you say, the word of God is superior to all the ideologies in your mind and wherever else just remember He created you and He expects you to follow His word.

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Date: Mon, 15 Dec 2008 04:14:51 -0800 [12/15/2008 06:14:51 AM CST]
From: quinoya diemo
Subject: Re: We Need to Rewrite Marriage Rules NOW

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If nganga thats a school of thought that is acceptable, then we need contracts, coz we keep changing jobs man!

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Date: Mon, 15 Dec 2008 04:18:02 -0800 [12/15/2008 06:18:02 AM CST]
From: Franklyne Terewa
Subject: Re: We Need to Rewrite Marriage Rules NOW

Guys

What do you think of the way our VIP protection unit is operating.

Why is it that The Kenya Police Recce Unit carries some of the most bulky weapons in the region? Why is it that Museveni’s guards are Kikwetes guards are having very small kind of walkie talkies like the ones used by The US secret service. The VIP prrotection unit in Kenya uses very old bulky Motorola GP 360 walkie talkies

Check the secret service website on http://www.secretservice.gov/ and also http://www.nirtal.com/page.asp?pageid=14

I think that our leaders security needs to be reviewed and its disgusting to watch the Presidential unit walking with bulky radios and weapons

Mary

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Date: Mon, 15 Dec 2008 13:04:21 +0300 [12/15/2008 04:04:21 AM CST]
From: mary matengo
Subject: The VIP Protection in Kenya and Efficiency

http://blog.jaluo.com/?p=1738
Date: Mon, 15 Dec 2008 11:39:15 +0300 [02:39:15 AM CST]
From: Robert Alai
Subject: Re: The Media bill…WHO IS BEHIND IT?

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The ‘Hypocrites’,Phareesees and High Priest’ of Kenyan Politics during torturous years of ‘One Party Dictatorship’ who joined the reform bandwagon when the battle was won 2003 are the one’s turning the clock backwards. They are the ones behind Poghisio, but now pretend to be with Wananchi when the heat is too much. Just tell me which Party Poghisio is the Chairman.

They are the same ones who struggled to block reforms of multy partysm untill Moi saved the situation at Kasarani in 1992, and are now busy trying to protect and save Kivuitu and team.

Just read the steps of Kalonzo’s MPs on the Electoral Reform Bills. They have been joined by Saitoti,Uhuru and Kiraitu to oppose fight and Constitutional ‘Reform Crusaders’ of yester years led by Raila, Imanyara,Orengo and Karua.

Constitution Reforms Roadmap is for posterity and not for narrow selfish interest of fence sitters who are hell bent on blocking Karua’s moves for selfish interest since they strive to survive on rigged elections. This click must know that Kenyans know their moves and are watching them.

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Date: Mon, 15 Dec 2008 01:19:51 -0800 [12/15/2008 03:19:51 AM CST]
From: Lordvick Otieno
Subject: Re: The Media bill…WHO IS BEHIND IT?

BY FR JOACHIM OMOLO OUKO, AJ

NAIROBI-KENYA

DECEMBER 13, 2008

Kenyans are eagerly waiting to see whether President Mwai Kibaki will assent to the Kenya Communication (Amendment) Bill 2008, hurriedly passed by Members of Parliament on Wednesday.

Kenyans are against the bill because if it is passed it will give the Government draconian powers to seize a broadcasting station’s equipment and to dictate programming content for radio and television.

Media houses have already kindly pleaded with President Kibaki not to assent the Bill, which they say if it is made into law it may come to haunt this country for many years to come.

Don’t forget that these are the same MPs who in April 2006 horrified the world when they threatened to throw out that year’s budget if their mileage allowances were not increased despite the fact that at that time the country direly in search of money to feed millions who were facing starvation.

This time they passed the Bill not only because the media dared to criticise them for refusing to pay taxes but also to ensure the media can never again tell the people about their impunity and irresponsible looting.

Otherwise they would have done the way they did in March 2006 when thousands of them took to the streets in Nairobi to call for the government’s ouster over an unprecedented police raid on Standard and KTN TV houses.

Unlike that time when opposition politician Raila Odinga joined journalists in condemning the raid this time because he has joined the government he has remained tight-lipped as he spoke during the Jamhuri celebrations at Nyayo Stadium, Nairobi on Friday.

Not even President Mwai Kibaki and his VP Kalonzo Musyoka spoke about the controversial Kenya Communications (amendment) Bill 2008 as Walter Mong’are alias Nyambane and Carolyn Mutoko of Kiss FM among other journalists and human right activists were arrested as they watched.

The civil society and journalists were whisked simply because they donned in black T-shirts printed the words; “No tax for MPs No tax for Us, Uta do?” They were also protesting against the Media Bill. They bundled into a police vehicle and driven to Lang’ata police station where they were detained.

Joining the brandishing banners of about 2,000 protesters in condemning the Standard and KTN raids, the MPs demanded the resignation of President Mwai Kibaki and Internal Security Minister John Michuki, who had defended the raid saying it was a matter of state security.

The raid took place shortly the Standard had on its headline a story written about a secret meeting between Kibaki and Kalonzo Musyoka. Kalonzo is currently the Vice President of Kibaki. Weekend edition’s managing director, Chaacha Mwita, sub-editor Dennis Onyango, and reporter Ayub Savula were detained by police for questioning about the story.

The paper’s chief executive officer, Tom Mshindi was later relieved of his duties and currently is the chief executive officer of Uganda Daily Monitor, a sister to Daily Nation of Kenya and Citizen of Tanzania respectively.

Although Musyoka was one of several cabinet ministers fired from their positions after they campaigned against Kibaki’s controversial draft constitution, which was defeated in a referendum in November 2005, The Standard reported that “the former minister was said to have expressed a readiness to rejoin the government and take the vice president’s slot of which he is now.

Kalonzo and the government issued denials after the story was published, and government spokesman Alfred Mutua followed up with a statement calling for the reporters and editor to be punished, the Standard reported.

This incident takes us back during Moi when police officers stormed the Nairobi offices of Citizen FM and Citizen TV, destroying and vandalizing property, including broadcasting equipment.

S.K. Macharia, the proprietor of Royal Media Services (RMS), which owns both stations, was arrested and charged with establishing and using radio communication equipment in violation of his broadcast license and the Kenya Communications Act of 1998.

Citizen FM’s license permitted the station to erect television and radio transmitters in Limuru, on the outskirts of Nairobi.

Macharia was taken to the Criminal Investigation Department for interrogation and then taken to court, where he was charged with using a radio communication apparatus that violated his license. He was released on bond of Kenyan shillings 500,000.

This was about the time then Minister for Trade and Industry Nicholas Biwott, a top aide to President Daniel arap Moi, won a court injunction blocking The Daily Nation from publishing excerpts of Rogue Ambassador, the memoirs of former U.S. ambassador to Kenya Smith Hempstone.

In the book, Hempstone alleges that President Daniel arap Moi personally ordered the murder of then-foreign minister Robert Ouko, beat him, and then watched as Biwott shot Ouko. On July 30, Moi and Biwott sued Hempstone for libel and sought to stop the publication, distribution, and sale of the book or any material that refers to the Ouko murder allegations.

Initially, Moi had threatened The Daily Nation following a full-page advertisement in the August 20 edition of the paper that read in part: “President Moi and Minister Nicholas Biwott want the High Court to stop its sale.

Biwott’s lawyers won the injunction, and, although the paper had already published some brief quotes from the book in which Hempstone calls Moi “ruthless, short-tempered, arrogant and self-promoting,” the editors said they would comply with the ruling.

On September 4, 2001, a high court in Nairobi extended an interim injunction restraining Text Book Centre from further distributing the book. Commissioner of Assize Jeanne Gacheche also blocked the bookseller’s agents and servants from further circulating or selling copies of the book. The court also extended an order barring the Nation Media Group from publishing parts of the book in The Daily Nation.

Similar incident happened recently when the High Court dismissed a defamation suit filed by an assistant minister against Nation Media Group on a story it carried in relation to a swoop on prostitutes in Nairobi’s Koinange Street in 2003. The court ruled that the story did not refer to assistant minister Mwangi Kiunjuri.

After finding the Nation not liable, the judge ordered Mr Kiunjuri to pay costs of the suit to the media house the costs and interest at a rate to be determined by the court from the day the case was filed in 2003.

According to Justice Ojwang the Nation article did not mention Mr Kiunjuri’s name and, in the absence of direct reference, neither the Nation nor its editors could be said to have defamed him. Such rule could hardly be made during Moi.

According to the judge the article was done in the public interest as it covered issues pertaining to HIV/Aids and could not be said to have been meant to make profit.

The judge at the same time found Royal Media guilty of defaming Mr Kiunjuri and awarded him Sh5 million for compensation.

Royal Media, the judge ruled, did not conduct proper investigations before carrying the story and naming the assistant minister as one of the politicians arrested during the swoop.

One thing is very obvious that media in Kenya have really suffered a great deal. It also suffered humiliation when President Mwai Kibaki’s wife, Lucy stormed into the offices of The Daily Nation in protest at the paper’s portrayal of her and her family.

The raid and her security detail, on the Daily Nation offices came as a shock to many.

Her aggressive disposition in slapping Kenya Television Network cameraman Clifford Derrick, who was recording her, was indeed shameful and shocking.

If assented by the president the Bill will not only give the commission powers to license and regulate broadcasting services, which could affect the freedom of radio and television stations and other electronic media outlets, but also gives power to the Communications Commission of Kenya (CCK) to prescribe to broadcasters what time, type and mode of programmes to air.

The new Bill will also restrict a media organisation from owning a television station and a radio station at the same time. It also prohibits newspaper publishers from owning a broadcasting station. Currently, a number of media organisations own both electronic and print media outlets.

Mars Group Chief Executive Officer, Mwalimu Mati who was also arrested and still behind bars with his wife at Langata Police Station as we go on press said they were arrested for wearing t-shirts that read ‘No taxes for MP’s, No taxes for us’. The police said they were arrested because wearing such t-shirt was bad.

People for Peace in Africa (PPA)
P O Box 14877
Nairobi
00800, Westlands
Kenya

E-Mail ppa@africaonline.co.ke
Tel 254-20-4441372
Website : www.peopleforpeaceinafrica.org

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Date: Sat, 13 Dec 2008 10:22:12 +0300 [12/13/2008 01:22:12 AM CST]
forwarded by: PEOPLE FOR PEACE IN AFRICA
Subject: WE WAIT TO SEE WHETHER PRESIDENT KIBAKI WILL ASSENT TO MEDIA BILL

http://blog.jaluo.com/?p=1735
Date: Sun, 14 Dec 2008 05:18:30 -0800 [07:18:30 AM CST]
From: owinga bonfas
Subject: The Kenyan Weak and Backward Middle Class

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If one looks deeply, he will realize that there is actually no middle class in Kenya.

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Date: Mon, 15 Dec 2008 00:15:22 -0800 [02:15:22 AM CST]
From: joseph nyongesa
Subject: Re: The Kenyan Weak and Backward Middle Class

Why is Hon Kibaki still quiet about MPs taxation?

What about the media bill? Is it that he is degrading gracefully from power so it doesn’t bother him anymore? Is he no longer interested in leading Kenya to prosperity, a thing he promised Kenyans when he was campaining?

Again there is Saitoti. He is fighting the media, and how will he make it without the media come 2012 now that he is interested in the highest office of the land.

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Date: Sun, 14 Dec 2008 23:36:50 -0800 [01:36:50 AM CST]
From: jack jack
Subject: WHOS INTEREST IS KIBAKI REPRESENTING, SELFISH MPS OR ALL KENYANS??

http://blog.jaluo.com/?p=1731
Date: Sun, 14 Dec 2008 05:21:18 +0000 [12/13/2008 11:21:18 PM CST]
From: mathias aguta
Subject: RE: The Media bill

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If i may add my voice on the on going debate of the media bill…Allow me to introduce a new twist to this…It is Kibakis final term in office and for continuity purposes if the bill is passed then alot about the current regime will go under the carpet never to be disclosed.
Afew questions come to mind, Was the media too generous with information during the pre and post election period? if so Muzzle them!

The little knowledge that i have about house house business {parliament} is that there is usually intense lobbying for or against a bill that is brought to the house..another question arises..who is behind the bill and what do they stand to gain by shutting up the media?

We talk of 2012 being around the corner but forget what a leader does overnight can affect Kenyas future…lets join hands and state categorically our leaders failures…

Just my thoghts….

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Date: Mon, 15 Dec 2008 07:27:10 +0000 [01:27:10 AM CST]
From: tito mwangi
Subject: RE: The Media bill…WHO IS BEHIND IT?

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the bill is ok, they need to be regulated, too much pornography and non-sensical things that do not add any value to our society. They are a dissapointing, corrupt lot, just like the politicians we have and lets not forget during the post election violence when they were suppose to unite the nation, what do they do? they go tribal! indeed they should be regulated.

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Date: Mon, 15 Dec 2008 08:18:06 +0000 [02:18:06 AM CST]
From: Maryann Wanjiru
Subject: Re: The Media bill…WHO IS BEHIND IT?

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Maryann

The bill is not done with good intention. I support most sections of the bill but I am not going to support the government raiding stations and dismanntling equipment. Do you realise how much it did cost KTN and The standard group to repair and restore the systems confisticated? Do you realise or is it that you say that if you have a a son who is a thug or involved in criminal activities then the police will have the right to come to your home and kill and maim and confisticate all sufurias and make sure that your home is not operatiional?

The bill iss even going as far as having too much control over the internet content. I dont know how much they will succeed on this but I know that it was added since I have sustained my opposition to the corrupt ways of one Bitange Ndemo. When I have been criticising this monster, the media have said that I went overboard. Now they realise who he is. Bitange Ndemo is an enemy to democracy. His hand is in more than 50% of Anglo leasing scandals and he involved greatly in the selling of Kenyan democracy through Telkom Kenya to the French and Safaricom non performing IPO.

Bitange Ndemo went against a court order which stops Ecconet from starting operations and the media kept quiet because they are very hungry for the YU advertisement fees. The media in this country is a mafia like but I have never and will never support the media being raided. Thats not control we want. We want regulation and not anarchy.

All Bitange Ndemo’s ills are on http://www.wananchiforums.com/showthread.php?p=3518#post3518 and when we reveal them and the media support him thinking that he will befriend them, they are now crying foul. The real enemy to Kenyan democracy is one BITANGE NDEMO.

Alai

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Date: Mon, 15 Dec 2008 11:39:15 +0300 [02:39:15 AM CST]
From: Robert Alai
Subject: Re: The Media bill…WHO IS BEHIND IT?

Wanabidii

Dont you see that the government is passing a law which will stop at nothing in clamping down on the media?

This law, according to inside sources was to be used by Michuki to refuse handing over power in 2007 but now its been passed and its going to be used in the runnup to 2012 elections.

Kibaki is planning the second round of rigging and its Kenyans who are going to be killed in 2012. Its planned rigging and its going to be deadly.

Kenyans wake up and stop this Kibaki / Raila / Kalonzo regime.

Munoru

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Date: Sun, 14 Dec 2008 21:16:50 +0300 [12:16:50 PM CST]
From: Munoru Ngatia
Subject: Media Bill is part of Plan to rig 2012 elections

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Bill or no bill, the media should seriously improve its regulatory mechanism. Atleast this bill brings to light the need for a well regulated media, who if they went unchecked could go haywire.

Thankyou.

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Date: Sun, 14 Dec 2008 18:09:11 -0230 [02:39:11 PM CST]
From: Ngari
Subject: Re: Media Bill is part of Plan to rig 2012 elections

Date: Sun, 14 Dec 2008 07:35:20 -0800 [09:35:20 AM CST]
From: Judy Miriga
Subject: OPEN LETTER OF VOLUNTARY TERMINATION TO PRESIDENT KIBAKI

Hon. President Kibaki,

Upon several notices I had previously sent you concerning your slakening and deteriorating performing conduct in the Duties of Public Office, I write this letter to serve you as a NOTICE TO VOLUNTARILY VACATE OFFICE PEACEFULLY.

As a spokesperson for the majority of voices, we have watched your leadership cramble to an alarming pathetic scenario. We observed your inability to steer Kenya to the expections of Kenyans and the world. This second term which saw you in the Presidency Office, at which you acquired through dubious means, have left a lot to be desired. You are no longer fit to hold the Presidency Office. If you are left to continue to sit and rule, Kenya is going down the drain to a point it will be extremely difficult to salvage pieces that will bring Kenya back to its feet and be Governable.

When Media is shut out to the control of your governance policy, the security of Kenyans is not guaranteed. Presently, the security of Kenya with suspecious foreign characters with gangery terrorists elements seen roaming up and about Kenya is questionable. Kenyan boarder is aloof. Police Force have continually been seen terrorizing Kenyans with live bullets. The consequential recommendations to urgently dismantle the Police Force have not been heeded or seen to be implemented with the urgency it deserve. A lot of sinister motives are suspected to be cooking in the Police Force in cohort to Terror Gang meant to silence, cover and manipulate Kenyans. This too is unacceptible.

Recently, Kenyans and the World saw how you were trying to siphone Media Bill that which was going to drawn Kenya to Draconian Dictatorship Rule, a Nation Ruled without information. You are trying to deny Kenyans their Rights to Information with honourable living. At Jamhuri Day, you used excessive force by your security boys to silence peaceful demonstrators who were trying to air their requests, grievances and lack of provisions to essential livelihood supplies. Your Government has failed to deliver or attend to matters of urgent need as cried by Public Demands. Your acts of alienation to Public Concerns is suspeciously worrisome. Mr. Fred Odhiambo and Mr. Walter Mong’are were wrestled to the ground by a group of Police led by their senior police officers with kicks and blows and Police seen aiming at their private parts. QFM radio morning show presenter Walter Mong’are popularly known as “Nyambane”, Kiss FM’s Carolyne Mutoko, Larry Asego and Felix Odiwuor Kodhe (Jalang’o) were held by police for more than six hours before they were released. It is unfortunate these Citizens were harrased and beaten with private parts severed which left Mr. Odhiambo severely wounded lying in the hospital after night long torments by Police in their custody even after injuries were aflicted.

On an urgent response from you, would you explain to me, to Kenyans and the World, reasons why your boys were specifically keen aiming attack to destroy vital organs in private parts of Mr. Odhiambo and Mr. Nyambane? How do you expect them to live a fulfilling healthy family life thereafter when their conjugal rights to enjoy their wives are destroyed by your demeaning ruthless out-of-order security men? Is this your new strategic tactics your men have perfected to execute a stagemanaged ambush upon peaceful demonstrators pleading to be heard, now and in the future? Is this your
systematic enforcement of implementing illegal family control to reduce number of population growth to certain targeted communities from certain region or section by dismantling private parts? Do you have conscience for humanity and respect upon
the will and purpose of God’s creation?

If I may state that you have purposefully commited and defied all rules of natural orders to respect and honour all rights to humanity by commission, ommission, subjection, institution, remission, termination, rejection and excessive cruelty which is understood as instituted adverse conditions against Human Rights and Economic Crime against Kenyans, would I be wrong?

Your Government is seen to have drained Kenyans mercilessly without morals or human empathy. Your boys beat and disengage private parts of peaceful Kenyans on the glare of full blown cameramen. We watched you as you reduce Kenyans to Vagabondage state of Vagrant. This is ruthlessly unacceptable behaviour not expected of a high ranking person and a leader of your time and age. You have failed completely to live up to standards. For this CASE, and for the good of Kenya in this Millenium and on the face of the world, your validity cannot be compromised.

We request you to make a honourable exit with immediate effect.

Yours Truely,

Judy Miriga
The Diasporan Spokesperson
USA

Watch this!!!!

Journalists, activists arrested on Jamhuri day

Updated 6 hr(s) 40 min(s) ago
By Sam Otieno
Police have arrested 100 civil society members and journalists in a bid to stop a peaceful demonstration outside Nyayo National stadium on Friday morning.
The arrests of Mars Group executive director Mwalimu Mati, Kiss 100 FM radio presenters Caroline Mutoko, Jalang’o and Larry Asego occurred shortly before President Kibaki delivered his Jamhuru day speech on Friday.
Others being held at Lang’ata police station are comedian and Q Fm presenter Walter Mong’are popularly known as Nyambane who was arrested as he attempted to present a petition to Kibaki at Nyayo stadium.
The move immediately prompted presidential guard to order journalists to restrict their movement by issuing a stern “No Movement” order.
The civil society and journalists donned in black T-shirts printed the words; “No tax for MPs No tax for Us, Uta do?” were bundled into a police vehicle and driven to Lang’ata police station where they were detained.
They were protesting against PMPs who passed the Kenya communications (Amendment) Bill, 2008, giving the Minister for Internal Security immense powers that include raiding and dismantling broadcasting equipment.
They were also protesting against the refusal by MPs to pay taxes.
If the President assents to the Communications Bill, then Security minister will have powers to send officers to television stations to destroy equipment and spy on journalists.
The Postal corporation employees will also open letters without authority of the courts.
The proposed law gives the Communications Commission of Kenya (CCK) responsibility to police broadcasting; determine content and programming, timing, manner and type of programmes to be broadcast.
The new CCK, to be made up of people hand-picked by Information Minister, will have powers to license and regulate broadcasting services, which could affect the freedom of radio and television stations and other electronic media outlets.

Jamhuri Day drama

Radio presenter and comedian Walter Mong’are, popularly known as Nyambane, is arrested at the Nyayo Stadium as he protested against the new media law. Photo/PETERSON GITHAIGA
By MUCHEMI WACHIRA and OLIVER MATHENGEPosted Friday, December 12 2008 at 22:05

Presidential security detail arrests Mr Frederick Odhiambo, a political activist, shortly after he shouted at President Mwai Kibaki, who was making a speech at the Nyayo National Stadium, during this year’s Jamhuri Day celebrations. Photo/PETERSON GITHAIGA
By MUCHEMI WACHIRAPosted Friday, December 12 2008 at 22:27

* President forced to cut short his speech as arrests mark independence celebrations

Protests over attempts to muzzle the media, rising food prices and failure by MPs to pay taxes forced the President to cut short his speech during Friday’s Jamhuri Day celebrations.
Four television and radio personalities were among 53 people who were arrested by police in day-long protests in parts of the country.
QFM radio morning show presenter Walter Mong’are popularly known as “Nyambane”, Kiss FM’s Carolyne Mutoko, Larry Asego and Felix Odiwuor Kodhe (Jalang’o) were held by police for more than six hours before they were released.
Mr Mong’are was wrestled to the ground and kicked by senior police officers as he made his way into the stadium dressed in clothes resembling those worn by prisoners to symbolise impending imprisonment of media if a Bill passed by Parliament on Wednesday is signed into law.
Those arrested were first held at Langata, Buruburu, Gigiri and Nyayo Stadium police stations.
Mr Mong’are and Mr Frederick Odhiambo of Bunge la Mwananchi lobby were moved to Nairobi area police headquarters.
In Mombasa, journalists covering the celebrations had tape strapped around the mouth as a way of protesting the law allowing a government-appointed commission to determine broadcast content, and giving the Minister for Internal Security powers to raid media houses.
Ms Mutoko was arrested as she arrived at Nyayo Stadium dressed in a black T-Shirt with the inscription “No Tax, No Tax utado? (What will you do)?”.
Presidential security officers descended on Mr Odhiambo after he shot up from his sit and started shouting.
He was sitting about 10 metres behind the President and it is not clear how he got entry into the VIP dais. President Kibaki who presided over the ceremony was forced to cut short his speech after Mr Odhiambo caused a stir.
The Head of State had just started giving his off the cuff speech in Kiswahili when Mr Odhiambo suddenly started shouting.
Shortly before the incident, an angry President who had apparently been appalled by heckles and shouts of ‘njaa, njaa tunaka chakula na MPs walipe ushuru’, (hunger, hunger, we want food and MPs must pay taxes) had said:
“Wapigane wale wanataka kupigana.” (Let those who want to fight do so). The President had made the remarks after a section of the crowd shouted at him when he started giving his Kiswahili speech.
However, the crowd was silent when he was delivering his Jamhuri Day message to the Nation in English.
At the dais, the VIPs appeared shocked by Mr Odhiambo’s protest.
Those who sat near him had started to walk away. Others watched in horror as the security agents wrestled him covering his mouth while struggling to eject him from area.
The President, First Lady, Lucy, Prime minister Raila Odinga and Vice-President Kalonzo Musyoka immediately left the podium with other VIPs in tow.
A similar incident had taken place during the entertainments when comedian Walter Mong’are attempted to access the podium.

But the security forces swiftly arrested him and led him away.
Even before the ceremony to mark the 45 years of independence had started, the mood at the Nyayo National Stadium was gloomy as police had arrested several members of the civil society.
They were seized before they entered the venue since they had earlier issued a warning that they would lead the crowd in protesting against raising costs of food prices.
They also wanted the crowd to stage demonstration to protest move by Members of Parliament not to pay taxes.
President Kibaki got a lukewarm response from the crowd as he waved around the stadium on his ceremonial Land Rover.
A few people responded “we are hungry” to Mr Odinga’s greetings.
He told the crowd that prices of maize flour will be reduced next week.
Mr Musyoka had encountered the same fate.
However, there was silence throughout President Kibaki’s main speech where he dealt mainly on the Government’s plans to address the current food shortage.
He said that the country must come up with policies that cushion the poor against the growing economic crisis.
And he noted that though the global financial crisis had its origin in the West, it had serious implications on the country’s economy and well-being of Kenyans.
The high cost of living in the country has generated a lot of concern and outrage from wananchi with prices of basic commodities rising beyond the reach of most Kenyans.
“We are also putting in place measures to increase food production and ensure sustained national food security,” said President Kibaki.
The President also sent a warning to businesses that are pushing prices upwards at the expense of the poor. He said that the Government had a duty to protect the right of Kenyans to meet their food requirements without impediments.
Taxation issue
However, despite his pro-poor policy pronouncements, President Kibaki did not address the issue of taxation of constitutional office holders that has caused an outcry.
The recently passed Communications Bill that gives the State too much control on the running of the country’s media did not feature in the President’s speech.
But he touched on the high cost of energy, noting that the Energy Regulatory Commission will engage stake holders in the sector with a view to implementing limited regulation of oil prices so that the local fuel costs reflect international movement in energy costs.

The President noted that the country would only achieve an economic growth rate of 4.5 per cent as compared to seven per cent the previous year due to the serious challenges arising from the current global financial instability and high prices of food and fuel.
“The challenges facing the global economy underscore the need for us to carefully manage available resources to safeguard the investments we have made, especially in infrastructure and human development,” he added.
President Kibaki had a good message for smallholder farmers. The Government, he said had purchased more than 100,000 tonnes of fertiliser. This would reduce prices of the commodity by one third.
Besides, the Government will also provide the farmers with affordable certified seeds.
And from January, the Head of State announced that the Government will provide tuition subsidies for students in youth polytechnics to boost enrolment and ease the burden on parents.

Dear All,

I have always wanted to discuss the position of our middle vis-a-vis our development and democracy. Political analysts have argued that a middle class that is politically conscious can be a great stimulus to democracy. Kenya seems to have a very backward middle class that is profoundly ambivalent about change towards democracy.Its a middle class that believes that its continued existence depends on the continuation of the status quo.

Remember during the post election demonstrations-the Kenyan middle class wanted to go back to work immediately whether Raila, Kibaki, Bifwoli or even Kofi Annan was the president. They didnt care that other Kenyans wanted change and were ready to fight for it. They watched on TV as Kibera people fought for what they believed was their RIGHT. Such is the backwardness of our middle class BUT when the Grand-Colaition was formed who benefitted most? the middle class.

Secondly, apart from the Law Society of Kenya, which became part and parcel of the discussions that were going on during that time..where were the others? Where was UASU? Where were the intellectuals in Kenya? Couldnt they provide ideas to the Annan group? Couldnt they mobilize to give direction to this country?

The Kenyan middle class is also riven by differences of ethnicity that it’s becoming an unlikely foundation for democratic change. We can talk and talk nicely about change here in bidii and even in our workplaces but when it comes to real voting..we vote with our tribes nomatter what..some have not voted for a person not from their tribe for 45 years and they claim that they too need change.But one problem with the Kenyan middle class is that its largely formed by civil servants who were created by Moi-many of whom did not even deserve the positions that they today hold. They have never known anything but “serikali” and so any change is uncharted waters to them. They own nothing but their jobs in government ministries.

In Phillipines in 1983 when Marcos rigged the elections and claimed victory as happened in Kenya by Kibaki-the army stepped in and restored order by supporting the winning candidate-Corazon Aquino. Kofi Annan did not have to go there to negotiate a Grand Coalition. Such is the middle class that can usher in democracy. Our army had a role in 2007. They could have stepped in and restored order then either organize democratic free and fair elections or installed the winner. But again they have nothing but serikali whole their lives.

In South Korea in 1987 When Chung Dae Hwan-the President refused to organize presidential elections when his term has ended and wanted to appoint another general to take over, the South Korean people demonstrated for three days and surprisingly were joined by the POLICE,who were sent to quell the demonstration and demanded that free elections be held. Have you ever imagined that the Kenyan police can join demonstrators??? for a common cause for the country???

We also have a very timid political culture that is easily demonstrated in our matatus. One conductor easily bullies grown men and women by deciding on how much the fare will be. For example the fare from city center to South C can be 20 shillings that is well known to all and sundry. But the conductor can decide that its 40 shillings inside the matatu. Surprisingly Kenyans will pay this 40 shillings and if you protest, you will remain alone while others timidly part with 40 shillings. This will never happen in Nigeria. We are such cowards even to a matatu conductor becuase we value our confort and convinience so much that we can not unite to change things around.

The poor in Kenya have done and are doing all that they can for change to come but the middle class is letting them down everyday. Please wake up Kenyan middle..Wake up and change this country for the benefit of all..

Regards,
Senator.

– – –
Date: Sun, 14 Dec 2008 05:18:30 -0800 [07:18:30 AM CST]
From: owinga bonfas
Subject: The Kenyan Weak and Backward Middle Class