This archive report was first published on 7 December 2019.
December 7, 2019
By MICHAEL CHERAMBOS
Our nation has made significant progress, but it's time to take the next step towards a more representative democracy – a freer, fairer, and more transparent Kenya.
The handshake between President Uhuru Kenyatta and Opposition leader Raila Odinga on March 9, 2018, was a groundbreaking moment in Kenyan history. It marked a shift towards unity and cooperation, bringing together two families that have been at the center of some of the country's most tumultuous periods.
From the Kenya People's Union (KPU) to the post-election violence (PEV) of 2007, ethnic tension has been a persistent challenge in Kenya's social fabric. However, the handshake has brought hope for a more inclusive and peaceful future.
The BBI initiative, a natural outgrowth of the handshake, aims to put tribalistic politics behind us and look forward to a better future. While its outcomes are yet to be seen, its origins are blessed, and its goals are optimistic and ambitious – qualities that have been missing from Kenya's national lexicon in recent decades.
As we reflect on Kenya's progress, from colonialism to the present day, it's clear that we have come a long way. But it's time for the next stage – a stage where we can build bridges, foster unity, and create a brighter future for all Kenyans.
