This archive report was first published on 6 January 2020.
Published on January 6, 2020, by Linah Benyawa, this article explores the relevance of Aristotle's ideas on democracy and the role of citizens in Kenya's political system.
Aristotle described man as a 'Zoon Politikon' – a political animal – by his very nature. He believed that men and women must own their democracy and come together to realise their own ends as individuals.
Students of Aristotle cannot miss the importance of diversity being the underpinning of a free society in his works. He structures his Politics as a science, aiming to build harmony from diversity.
Unlike Plato, Aristotle does not envision authoritarian philosopher kings ruling over their subjects. Instead, he believes in well-educated citizens being active in the economic, social, and political life of the broader state.
As Kenya looks to redefine its political system and culture, Aristotle's ideas offer valuable insights. The Building Bridges Initiative (BBI) moves from theory to practice, and the people must own this process, not as political scientists or theorists, but as political animals in this political ecosystem.
The BBI taskforce visited all 47 counties to collect the people's views, and the recommendations included a further period of consultation and an opportunity for Kenyans to ask questions. Kenyans will be asked again to take part in reframing their democratic future.
For those who discuss politics and those who don't, this is a chance for all to have a say. Whether by petitioning the BBI team or voting in the referendum, voices must be heard.
Are you fed up with the same old names and faces? Are you fed up with elections being about ethnicity and not economy? It is time for Kenyans to come together and demand a better democracy.
