This archive report was first published on 10 August 2019.
Published on August 10, 2019, by NJOKI CHEGE, a director at the Aga Khan University Graduate School of Media and Communications.
As I reflect on the state of leadership in Kenya, I am reminded of the millions of Kenyans who voted for Nairobi Governor Mike Mbuvi Sonko, including myself, out of anger and a momentary lapse of sanity.
However, it is not Sonko's antics that I want to discuss today, but rather the broader issue of our nation's self-loathing and the lack of respect shown by our leaders towards the people they serve.
Kenya does not have leaders; we have a mass of uncouth, cantankerous, and scandal-ridden individuals who have abandoned all regard for leadership, public service, and self-respect.
Why do we treat politicians like they are special creatures from a different planet? We give up our seats for them at functions, 'recognise their presence' at burials and weddings, and approach them with an air of fear, humility, and meekness that we do not even have when we approach God.
It is this nationwide self-loathing that has made it okay for arrogant politicians and government officials to harass us in public spaces because they are 'waheshimiwa'.
Have you ever thought what would happen if, on Monday morning, you ignored that siren, stood your ground, and refused to move your car for that politician?
Next time you spot an 'important' Kenyan in traffic bullying you, don't give way. Next time you spot an MP at a funeral you are attending, don't give up your seat. Remind them to show up early in future.
They are not special. They are not more important than we are. They work for us, not the other way round.
