This archive report was first published on 24 September 2019.
Published on September 24, 2019, by Kennedy Chesoli, a New York-based development economist and global policy expert.
Political stability is often seen as a key determinant of economic growth and poverty alleviation. However, the current stability in Kenya, brought about by the surprise March 2018 rapprochement between President Uhuru Kenyatta and former Premier Raila Odinga, has raised concerns about the erosion of democratic gains.
Since the 'handshake', President Kenyatta has received endorsement and support from every known stakeholder group that often challenges the State. The labour movement, the diplomatic corps, journalists, and civil society have all been extra-careful with their reportage, fearing to speak out against the government.
Respected lawyers and opposition legislators like James Orengo and Amollo Otiende have also been silent, with Orengo even attempting to explain on TV the ramification of the President's endorsement of McDonald Mariga as the Jubilee candidate for the Kibra by-election.
However, the stability has also led to the rise of sycophancy, with some individuals becoming intolerant and unreasonable in their support for the President. The Senate, which has constitutional powers and mechanisms to preserve its interests, has been powerless to speak out against the President's actions.
As one observer noted, the political stability is compromising the independence of our institutions. The 'handshake' has made the President powerful and supreme, with some individuals even suggesting that no one should dare question his decisions.
Is the political stability in Kenya making some folks intolerant, unreasonable sycophants? Only time will tell.
