Friday, 19th August I happened to attend a funeral at Nyakwerema village, Borabu constituency of the late Salome Omanga who lost her life with her new born at Nyamira Referral Hospital while giving birth. As expected politics could have taken charge of the program depending on the interest urgency of the matter to the public, administration and the political sphere.
Time came when the speeches from the political class were ongoing. I happened to get a hint that the area Chief had been instructed strictly not to allow some people have a chance of addressing the crowd. Reason being the county government didn't want to get embarrassed because of the kind of negligence which occurred from their side leading to the death of the deceased Salome. Those who were scheduled to talk including elected leaders had been coached to keep off from the matter completely.
Fortunately, one of those who were pointed out not to talk, being Walter Samwel representing the youth made his way to reach the microphone. It got to an embarrassing end when the area Chief stood fast to take the microphone from this young man and demanded that he shouldn't address the crowd. Hell broke loose on him as the charged crowd shouted telling off the chief to let Walter address the crowd, on which he had no option than to obey the demands of the majority.
He addressed the crowd as people chanted in support of him all through his touching and moving speech. It was very clear that the area administration were shying away from allowing the young people have their place in the program. This same person who is being placed under watch not to have space is who has been close to the family from the day the late lost her life in hospital to the burial date. Helping in everything including the materials which were being used in the function. It's unacceptable for our leaders to be politicizing everything and feeling insecure in everything, everywhere and from everyone.
I don't understand when and why our leaders have chose not to be human anymore. Our local leaders especially from Nyamira County have chose to seek public mercies and political recognition from very small undeserving events. Soberness in leadership is a value which must be embraced and practiced by all in leadership positions. Having to fear and be threatened by the youth who have stood strong to ensure the society goes on upright isn't promising. We must learn to appreciate and give credit where it deserves.