This archive report was first published on 10 September 2019.
As the country grapples with the aftermath of the chaotic scenes in Murang'a County, one thing is clear: politicians have a long way to go in learning how to disagree respectfully.
On Sunday, Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro and Nominated MP Maina Kamanda engaged in a heated altercation at a church, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. The incident is a stark reminder of the need for politicians to put aside their differences and engage in constructive dialogue.
Politics is not about brawling or resorting to physical combat. It's about competing ideas and proposals, and selling them to the public in a respectful manner. Unfortunately, our politicians have a history of fomenting discord and chaos, often using brute force to silence their opponents.
The incident at the church was a perfect example of this. The two MPs were fighting over a microphone, an extension of their long-raging clash over political loyalty in regard to succession politics. But the brawl depicted them as mannerless individuals undeserving of the public offices they occupy.
It's unconscionable that politicians should engage in high-octane campaigns at this moment, when the next general election is still three years away. What will happen when the elections are nigh?
But that's not all. We also challenge religious leaders to keep politics out of places of worship. The churches, mosques, or temples play a pivotal role in society, promoting right over wrong and providing spiritual nourishment to all. But that doesn't mean politicians should be allowed to use the pulpit to push their own selfish agenda and spew hatred.
It's time for politicians to spare the citizens the unnecessary commotion that's creating animosity and hatred. We abhor the reckless political campaigns and violence that's becoming all too common in our country.
