As we approach Christmas, a season that traditionally symbolizes joy, reflection, and togetherness, I find myself compelled to address the GEMA nation. This year, Christmas carries a different tone. While it has always been a time of love, penitence, giving, and forgiveness, this year, we find ourselves engulfed by anger, frustration, and division.
Christmas is a season to celebrate with family, friends, neighbors, and fellow citizens. Yet, my people of the mountain those of us who have traditionally held pride in our unity seem to be at odds with themselves. We are bitter, hyper-sensitive, and at times, even hostile. The question that comes to mind is: what has happened to us? How did we, as a people, arrive at this point?
Yes, it has been a difficult year, both globally and locally. The ripple effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, global economic challenges, extreme weather events, and regional conflicts have left many reeling. However, in the face of these challenges, we must remember that the worst is over. As the year draws to a close, we must look ahead to a brighter future.
We are resilient, and despite the global challenges from the war in Ukraine to the instability in the Middle East we stand as a nation that continues to uphold the values of democracy. We have made it this far, and there is hope for a better tomorrow. It is a time to embrace the future, not to dwell on the past.
As Kenyans, we are united not just by geography or national symbols, but by a shared history, culture, and aspirations. Our diversity is our strength. Yet, we seem to be forgetting these values. Why do we continue to tear each other down instead of celebrating our collective achievements? Why is there so much bitterness, especially towards the leadership of this nation?
The frustration against national leadership, especially towards former President Uhuru Kenyatta, is disheartening. Many in our community were quick to label him a failure during his tenure, yet the evidence of his administration’s achievements such as infrastructure development and economic progress was undeniable. His peaceful handover of power to President William Ruto was a testament to Kenya’s democratic maturity. And yet, after he retired, we continued to vilify him. Public and private spaces alike became filled with disparaging remarks against him and his family. The bitterness reached its peak when his properties were looted earlier this year, with some even justifying these actions.
But now, when Kenyatta steps back into the public eye, we sing his praises again. We hail him as a leader, calling him “Muthamaki” and the undisputed Kingpin of the mountain. But this about-face is telling. We seem unable to find a stable ground on which to build our collective future.
It is time to ask ourselves: why do we continue to perpetuate this cycle of anger, division, and blame? The same individuals who were once vilified for their leadership are now being called upon to help resolve the very issues we have been complaining about. Names like Kagwe, Kinyanjui, and Kabogo people with vast experience and knowledge are now being rejected by some of us simply because of personal political grievances. This refusal to engage with the expertise and experience that could resolve our challenges only prolongs our suffering.
We must ask ourselves: what do we want as a people? Is it not better to build bridges rather than walls? Why have we allowed ourselves to be manipulated by propagandists, losing sight of our shared interests?
This Christmas, I urge the GEMA nation to reflect on these questions and resolve to move forward with a renewed sense of unity and rationality in the coming year. Let us embrace the future with open hearts and minds, for we are stronger together. Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year!
