Politics

Kenyan politics fascinate me! I haven’t really figured out how exactly they work, and I think in order to truly understand you must be Kenyan.

Prior to 2007, their system was basically the same as the British. They had a president, Ministers of Parliament (MPs) etc. However, the 2007 elections caused huge amounts of gory post-election violence. It has just been decided that the trials will involve the Hague. This is very good news otherwise the outcomes would go in favor of the highest bidder. As far as I can tell, the elections were rigged to begin with, but in order to quell the violence now there is a president, vice-president, prime minister, and deputy. The prime minister and the president have similar amounts of power.

Everything, however, is corrupt. Everyone knows this, and it is okay to say. The newspaper contains fierce editorials and is definitely biased not in favor of the government. Currently there is a big uproar over the reappointment of the chair of the anti-corruption board. Many believe his reappointment by the President was illegal and are fighting the decision. Even the anti-corruption board has corruption issues! Positions tend to be bought, even those such as census enumerators. The taxes on the poorest of citizens are outrageous, and governmental officers do not pay any taxes.

People, especially men, like to sit around and discuss politics, not unlike U.S. citizens chatter about football. Many people have asked flat out if I voted for Barrack Obama. Usually they first ask me my name, and then if I like Obama. Lots also find it hysterical to ask if I am related to him. Some walls have “Obama” written on them and there is lots of apparel with “Yes we can” on it. The people also have no shame in saying that Obama will not visit Kenya until the corruption lessens. They aren’t happy about it, but they seem to understand. They are extremely proud that the U.S. has a president of Kenyan descent.

Despite the many problems with the political system, people still love their politicians. A visit is a big deal and people still cheer even though they know many of the promises are false. I think that is human nature, however, to be excited about anyone famous.

On a side note, Kenya is divided into 7 provinces. Within these provinces there are “district headquarters” which can best be described as the capital of a county. Government offices in a town are very good because they provide job opportunities and ensure that there will be a dispensary (clinic) and school.