This archive report was first published on 13 June 2020.
As we navigate the COVID-19 pandemic, one thing has become starkly clear: discipline in fighting the virus is not for all of us.
Published on June 13, 2020, the adoption of social distancing and face masks has become an everyday norm. However, the consequences of these measures have disproportionately affected the poor, who are already struggling with existing vulnerabilities.
From stay-at-home orders to restrictions on movement, the measures aimed at reducing the spread of the coronavirus have been compounded by additional consequences on people's health and livelihoods.
Initially, it seemed as though every Kenyan was expected to adhere to these measures. The government's efforts to enforce compliance were evident in the numerous raids and arrests carried out to deter those who defied the rules.
However, in recent weeks, it has become apparent that the discipline in following these measures and their enforcement have grown into a burden for the majority poor, while politicians and those with social capital gather freely without consequence.
Leaders are seen defying movement restrictions, social-distancing protocols, and wearing masks improperly, hosting crowds as if there are no legal measures against their actions. It seems there is no intention of stopping them.
Why is the blatant disregard of health measures among the elite being condoned by the Ministry of Health? Why is social class accepted as a reason to publicly defy these measures?
This is not the time for double standards. Allowing individuals who should be leading by example to violate global health measures risks the lives of Kenyans who already struggle with existing vulnerabilities.
Scheafer Okore is a policy analyst.
