Political activism often carries inherent risks, but for Morara Kebaso, the threat became a stark reality during a public participation exercise at the Bomas of Kenya. This event, intended to debate the impeachment of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, took a violent turn, marking a traumatic chapter in Kebaso’s ongoing fight for accountability and good governance in Kenya.
The Prelude to Chaos
Morara Kebaso, a vocal advocate for political reform, arrived at the Bomas with the intent of voicing his views on the pressing need for accountability within the government. However, as he approached the venue, he encountered an unexpected barrier. Despite being recognized as a key participant in the debate, police officers initially prevented him from entering. It was only through the insistence of onlookers that he was allowed in. “I was then prevented from entering the door at Bomas, I went to another door and I was still prevented and also to the third door,” he recounted during an interview on Spice FM.
These early signs of hostility did not deter him. However, in hindsight, Kebaso believes he overlooked several “red flags” that hinted at a potential ambush. His public statements on platforms like TikTok and Twitter had clearly rattled some individuals within the political landscape. He had been vocal about impeaching both the President and Deputy President, a stance that drew the ire of those who felt threatened by his activism.
The Outbreak of Violence
Once inside, the atmosphere quickly turned hostile. Kebaso noticed a palpable tension in the room, particularly from the event’s Master of Ceremonies, Ruaraka Member of Parliament TJ Kajwang’. The crowd’s desire for Kebaso to share his insights clashed with Kajwang’s apparent disapproval, igniting a confrontation that would soon escalate into chaos.
“It seems I was unwelcome to the ODM organized event,” Kebaso reflected, highlighting the premeditated nature of the attack. As he raised his hand to speak, a group of men, described as “goons,” surged forward from behind the podium. Their intent was clear: to silence Kebaso at any cost. “They started moving tables, picked chairs and started throwing them at me,” he said, recalling the pandemonium that ensued.
Caught off guard, Kebaso attempted to defend himself but found escape routes blocked. The situation became increasingly perilous as he faced a barrage of flying chairs, sustaining injuries to his head, neck, and legs. “I kept calm but when it got serious I tried to escape,” he explained. Despite the chaos, some members of the audience attempted to shield him from the onslaught, but the violence proved overwhelming.
Aftermath and Reflections
Once the dust settled, Kebaso was aided by a police officer and good Samaritans who managed to extricate him from the tumultuous scene. He was rushed to Nairobi Hospital, where his injuries were assessed, but he subsequently moved to another facility for further care. The experience was traumatic, not just physically but mentally, leaving Kebaso to grapple with the implications of such a brutal attack on a political activist.
“This week I am beginning a campaign for the reconstitution of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) because we want to recall members of parliament because they no longer represent the voice of the people,” he announced post-incident. His resolve to advocate for change remained unshaken, even after facing life-threatening violence.
Kebaso’s determination to challenge the status quo is driven by a deep-seated belief that the current leadership has failed to deliver on their promises. In his assessment, “Gachagua is a worse leader than (President) William Ruto in terms of what he stands for, his history of corruption. I think he should be impeached. The only problem is that the people impeaching him also deserve to be impeached.”
Political Climate and Safety Concerns
The attack on Kebaso raises alarming questions about the safety of political activists in Kenya. In a nation where political dissent is often met with violence, the incident at Bomas serves as a chilling reminder of the risks that come with challenging entrenched power structures. The implications of such violence extend beyond the individual; they create an environment of fear that can silence dissent and stifle democracy.
Kebaso’s experience resonates with a broader narrative of political unrest in Kenya. Activists and ordinary citizens alike are increasingly concerned about their safety as they seek to hold their leaders accountable. The potential for violence looms large, particularly when individuals challenge the political elite or expose corruption.
The Role of Political Institutions
The incident at the Bomas of Kenya also highlights the responsibilities of political institutions in safeguarding democratic discourse. Events like public participation exercises should serve as platforms for constructive dialogue and debate, not arenas for violence. The failure to protect participants undermines the democratic process and erodes public trust in institutions designed to facilitate governance.
Moreover, the involvement of political figures, as suggested by Kebaso’s claims regarding the identities of his assailants, further complicates the issue. If political operatives are implicated in orchestrating violence against dissenting voices, it signals a disturbing trend in which power is maintained through intimidation and fear rather than through democratic principles.
A Call for Change
In the wake of this attack, Kebaso’s message is clear: the fight for accountability and transparency in government must continue. He believes that change is not only possible but necessary for the betterment of Kenyan society. His determination to advocate for the reconstitution of the IEBC reflects a broader call for political reform and a return to governance that prioritizes the needs of the people.
Kebaso’s ordeal is a testament to the courage required to stand up against corruption and mismanagement. His resilience in the face of adversity serves as an inspiration to others who may feel disheartened by the current political climate. In his pursuit of justice and reform, Kebaso embodies the spirit of activism, challenging the status quo and advocating for a brighter future for Kenya.
Conclusion
The attack on Morara Kebaso at the Bomas of Kenya underscores the challenges faced by political activists in their quest for accountability and reform. It is a stark reminder of the dangers that accompany the fight for democracy and the pressing need for protective measures for those who dare to challenge the political elite. As Kebaso embarks on his campaign for change, his experience serves as a rallying cry for others to join in the pursuit of a more just and transparent governance structure in Kenya.
In the coming weeks and months, the eyes of the nation will be on Kebaso and his initiatives, hoping that his resilience can inspire a broader movement toward accountability and reform. The journey ahead is fraught with challenges, but as Kebaso has demonstrated, the fight for a better future is worth every sacrifice.
