Five crucial things that President Uhuru needs to consider in his final term

This year Kenya witnessed a highly charged electioneering period characterized by two presidential petitions in which NASA and jubilee won 1-1. The political period is over and the country has a legitimate president- Hon Uhuru Kenyatta. It’s time to build the nation in order to achieve political, social and economic security. To achieve this, the president needs to consider the items below.

1. Reach out to NASA leadership

President Kenyatta is yet to unveil his final term cabinet. Before he does so, it’s prudent and paramount to consult with NASA leadership in a bid to achieve a cabinet that will champion the vision of this country competitively. Many readers will mistake this proposal for a power sharing deal recommendation- NO- this is inclusivity at its best.

Some section in Jubilee party would not be very happy with such a consideration especially those that are keen to succeed Mr. Kenyatta. To them this is an impediment to their dreams simply because they are not sure what such unity would bore. Uhuru Kenyatta should be allowed to make this call independently- he has a clean heart and means well. His inner circle ought to spare Kenyans politricks and allow His Excellency to extend an olive branch to his political rival.

Raila Odinga on the other side should not turn down this invitation. He’s a gentleman and he means well for this country- this is evident through the struggle he has engaged himself in to liberate kenye. He should not have his infamous irreducible minimums. His men/women must hold their horses and let him meditate/ponder/sleep over this offer. He must endeavour to see Kenya prosper thus he should consider such an opportunity if offered. Both nasa and jubilee have blueprints which they claim will take this country to “another level.” If the two work together in an environment void of suspicion, witch-hunt and deceit, then this nation would prosper.

2. Corruption

Over the years, this country has experienced wanton theft of public funds. Leaders have literally turned against the led. Chapter six of our constitution (leadership and Integrity) has been mercilessly violated by the same people who swore to defend it. It’s absurd.

Hon Kenyatta needs to call out corrupt officials to resign whenever there are corruption allegations against them. He should not look helpless in the war against corruption. He must understand that Kenyans elected him “overwhelmingly” to fix such mess. He must walk the talk.

He must discourage and curtail state operatives who interfere with the judicial processes which seek to unravel scams.

He must see to it that the established Ethics and anti corruption organ is functional, independent and not an extension of the ruling party. The commission must be seen to crack whip on the big fish.

3. Resolve marginalisation

It’s a sad state of affairs that some regions in this country are “equal than others.” This is purely based on political correctness. The development pattern in the country is irregular- an indication that the national cake is for a few who support the powers that be. In return, this marginalisation has led to animosity and hatred between and amongst these regions. Without favour, the president must ensure that there is equal distribution of the nation’s wealth among the 47 counties. This way the country is able to prosper as a whole. It reduces suspicion, hatred and repulsion between/amongst communities/regions.

Government appointments must have a national outlook. Government recruitment processes must be inclusive and transparent. In the absence of these, we are doomed.

4. Cabinet appointments

Historically, ministerial appointments have been an opportunity to reward loyalty and political losers or rejects. President Kenyatta should change this. He must tap the expertise of able Kenyans without looking at their tribe, political inclination or their sycophancy. Merit should be the guiding principle in their selection. Involvement of the opposition in such an exercise is not submission but the best practice and progressive. The appointees should be vibrant persons who are able to inform Kenyans about every undertaking in their ministries.

5. Constitutional amendments

In my considered opinion, the constitutional document needs review. In the year 2010, the supreme law was passed with the hope and anticipation that the contentious parts would be amended thereafter. On this one the president has to warn the legislature not to amend the document in their favour. The changes should aspire to make the lives of Kenyans better. Of the areas that i feel should be amended are the presidential term limit and the creation of an office for the person who emerges second in the presidential election. Currently, the presidential term limit is 2 terms of 5 years each- if we could have a president serving for a single term- continuous 6 years. The person who comes second in the presidential election should have a slot in government, say the prime minister or an ex-officio role in the legislature.

Conclusion

The president should think about his legacy. What will Kenyans and the whole world remember him for? He must be willing to disappoint a few for the common good. He must be willing to consider the above lest he will take his memory with him when he leaves office.