We can build lasting bridges but only with sobriety through BBI

With the launch of the BBI report last Monday, the vibes coming from across the political divide are greatly encouraging. At the launch, President Kenyatta called on all delegates present, and Kenyans at large, to read the document and make informed choices. Indeed, the chorus in the auditorium was “Read the report. Read the report!”

He further called on Kenyans to build consensus so that we do not enter into a contentious referendum on the report. Whereas Deputy President William Ruto had been perceived as the greatest antagonist – and he did stir the waters during his speech – yet, at the end of the meeting, it was greatly comforting to see the President and the DP walk out almost hand in hand, behind the former Prime Minister, Raila Odinga. It is amazing the impact such simple gestures immediately had on the mood of the nation.

Though a few politicians from both sides have maintained a fairly strong stance on BBI, it does appear like there is an increasing thawing of the political ice. And that is as it should be. Sometime back in this space, we referred to Constructive Deliberation, a consensus-building concept proffered by Magdalena Wojcieszak. This three-pronged strategy includes: Decision-making element in which each of the groupings are allowed to offer competing arguments while analysing problem areas and identifying solutions.

A Democratic element, in which groups consider one another’s arguments while demonstrating respect for dissimilar views. And finally, a Dialogue element, which facilitates a robust debate from all sides, even those whose voices may be considered incommensurate. If we take this approach, especially as the BBI process enters a critical phase, it is possible to surmount all hurdles and end up with a beneficial exercise.

As was my position at the BBI launch, unless and until we address cancer that eats this nation, we will never have enduring peace. To continue with business as usual is to deceive ourselves. It is for this reason that we applaud our leaders for the positive vibes we are hearing.

Of note are the sentiments recently expressed by the Deputy President at various forums. On one such occasion the DP declared, ‘’I want to ask leaders across Kenya that we do not drive the country into a divisive engagement. Even if we go to the referendum, let us have a non-contested process. It is possible we have a win-win referendum. There is no gain for anybody to drive us into a divided country.” This is a significant move in the right direction, and quite in line with the Dialogue element in Wojcieszak’s Constructive Deliberation concept of consensus building.

Without a doubt, political competition has been the petrol that has fuelled the fires that have threatened to consume our nation every electoral season. The do or die race to State House has, more than anything else, been the catalyst in this socio-chemical reaction. That is why we must of necessity try in every way possible to fix our politics. Yet, if we are going to develop structures and systems that will carry us into posterity, then we must abandon narrow perspectives that only satisfy the desires of the political class but do not effectively address our national needs and aspirations.

If all goes according to plan, in but a short while the BBI document will be on the floor of the august House for due consideration. If by then consensus will not have been built, we could easily find ourselves with a house on fire rather than one generating light. Prior to this, the County Assemblies may themselves have been consumed by similar flames, as partisan politics take centre stage.

This would take us to a most dangerous place where we found ourselves during the 2005 referendum. This is what ushered us into the hell of 2007.

Divisive politics is a path leads to destruction. You only need to look at what this has done to Somalia and the former Sudan. We are fully aware of the deaths it brought in Rwanda. The United States of America, in spite of its elevated global status, is likewise staring at a possible internal implosion due to an almost reckless political intransigence.

Simply put, political division is corrosive. That is why Kenyans must refuse to be taken down that treacherous path as we consider the BBI proposals. Instead, let us embrace and support the positive spirit budding among our top leadership. We can then complete this BBI process peacefully and consequently enjoy 2022 elections.

-doginde@gmail.com