We must not let our differences derail the BBI

Kenya’s public consultation period about the contents of the Building Bridges Initiative (BBI) entered its third month this February. After recent lively debates the differences emerging between our political groupings threaten to destroy the national unity the BBI has built so far.

All Kenyans have to take responsibility for fostering mutual understanding and cooperation. We cannot let this historic effort fail.  

When President Uhuru Kenyatta and Opposition leader Raila Odinga shook hands in March 2018, a more significant process than a mere personal cooperation began. With the Jubilee party and ODM joining forces, leaders from all major tribes supported a socio-political revolution for the first time in our history.

Over the past few weeks however, some Members of Parliament decided to deviate from the approach of unity when it comes to discussing the provisions of the BBI.

They began hosting parallel BBI rallies. This threatens to undermine the very idea of national cohesion.

Over 170 MPs united around a set of concerns they seemed to have found in connection with the proposals of the BBI.

The most important among such concerns is the creation of an expanded executive that would, among other reforms, see the establishment of the office of a prime minister.

As opposed to introducing constitutional reforms and new governing positions, the legislators would prefer to see employment rates increase among our youth population as well as have the prices of coffee, tea and milk stabilise.

The President has repeatedly emphasised that the purpose of constitutional reforms is to ensure peaceful transfer of power. 

Peace and stability are necessary preconditions for successfully implementing the economic and trade policies that Kenya needs.

Economic progress and the consequent improvement of living standards is impossible until our political system eliminates bitter competition between our tribes.

Instead of falling into the trap of division, politicians should give consultation a chance. On January 25, we demonstrated at the Mombasa BBI rally that differences of opinion do not lead to a dead end.

Coming together to listen and consider each other’s viewpoints as one nation, as was showcased in Mombasa, is the only way forward.

As our political leaders debate with each other in the context of public meetings, so should we enlighten our fellow citizens about the advantages of the BBI’s proposals in our lives.

All Kenyans play an important role in reforming our politics for a better future.

Thankfully, the inclination towards division is not what prevails in Kenya today. On numerous occasions, politicians have joined forces to support the efforts of our president in sustaining the momentum that the BBI has spurred.

Politicians from the Ukambani region, Wiper party chief Kalonzo Musyoka and Kitui Governor Charity Ngilu decided to work together for their community’s social progress. Prominent Jubilee figure Peter Muthoka is now also backing the unity. As President Kenyatta envisioned, Kenyans are slowly but surely coming together.

By joining forces for common political and economic goals, we can eradicate the ethnic and divisions that have mired our country for decades.

We must not give in to sentiments of division. As we participate in public rallies, we must remember we have begun the journey towards a new Kenya. Let us listen to voices of unity! Let us remember what we are all aspiring to achieve.