This week marks
the inauguration of Barack Obama as the 44th President of
the United States of America. But despite the massive hope that Obama's
presidency bring for Kenya, there is a growing scepticism about his
ability or even willingness to assist his father's country of birth.
First, the US has enough problems on its own for Obama to focus on Kenya.
In spite of his Kenyan roots, not only is Obama an American, as opposed
to being Kenyan, he is the president of the United States. In addition
to acting in the domestic interests of his people, other issues of priority
would lie in the threats and opportunities provided by the Middle East
and the economic crisis obliges the new president to confront the challenges
that come with emerging powers such as China and India. When not engrossed
on these issues, environmental concerns, democracy and the rule of law
are likely to take up the president's time and attention.
Having said
so, Kenyans must surely demand more from Obama, particularly due to
the role that their nation played in shaping the president of the United
States of America. It shall be recalled that in 1987, it was in Kenya
that 26-year-old Barack Obama explored his family roots and in essence,
his very own identity. In doing so, he also reconnected with his background
and Kenyan way of life, particularly in Kogelo, a small rural village
where his father's dreams shaped his very own. His victory not only
broke some of the many mythical barriers that stagnate many countries.
It also restored the US as a land of opportunities, particularly for
those disillusioned Kenyans restricted by glass-ceilings across that
great country. Back at home, the celebrations in Nairobi united the
country and also showed that we too can also rise above ethnicity and
petty politics. Hopefully we can move beyond the mere declarations of
public holidays as a show of our admiration for the new American President
and learn from the vision that got him elected.
We need to
first soften out hearts and look at the ideals behind this man and how
they may better our country. Many of the sceptics on what Obama can
do for Kenya underestimate his ability to effect change and ignore his
previous efforts. It shall be recalled that in 2006, during a visit
to Kenya, his speech at Nairobi University caused ripples across the
political scene when he urged Kenya's government to be more transparent
and end corruption. Again, as Kenya burnt subsequent to the 2007 elections,
Obama spoke out and worked with the Kenyan leadership in resolving the
post-election crisis that threatened to put the country on the path
of self-destruction. There is reason to be optimistic. After all, Obama's
story remains an inspiration for young Kenyans who have a vision for
their country. In this regard, by virtue of his identity as a product
of the Kenyan Diaspora, Obama's presidency has the potential to go
further than previously imagined.
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With that, kenyans should not expect miracles or feel they are owed anything because as a people we need to remove that mentality from our minds and expect the leaders WE elect to emulate him in his actions and deeds and demand change from them and not be as complacent as we have been in the past.