This archive report was first published on 14 November 2019.
On November 14, 2019, Didmus Barasa, the MP for Kimilili, made a shocking statement that has left many Kenyans reeling. He suggested that Luos in Kibra are too primitive and need to be recolonized by Britain.
According to Barasa, the Luos in Kibra are 'totally uncivilized' and in dire need of a harsh colonial rule to 'civilize, modernize, and transform' them. He claimed that they are 'worse than wild dogs' and that their 'inexplicably high level of sycophancy' is a major concern.
Barasa's comments have been widely criticized, with many accusing him of being insensitive and out of touch with reality. His suggestion that Kibra should be recolonized has been met with outrage, with many arguing that it is a throwback to a dark period in Kenya's history.
Barasa's comments were made in the wake of the Kibra by-election, which was won by ODM. He claimed that the party's victory was due to 'dubious and underhand techniques' employed by ODM, including 'thuggery behaviour, goonship activities, and buffoonery tactics'.
It remains to be seen how Barasa's comments will be received by the public and the government. However, one thing is clear: his suggestion that Luos in Kibra need to be recolonized has sparked a heated debate about colonialism, racism, and the role of politicians in shaping public discourse.
