There is no doubt that the race for the position of the Chief Justice is heating up. The interviews for the shortlisted candidates have been ongoing and they are very competitive. The person who stands out most for me is lawyer Nzamba Kitonga.
Lawyer Nzamba Kitonga is no doubt a favorite of many. Even the controversial Political Analyst Mutahi Ngunyi roots for him. Through a tweet, Mutahi says the following about Kitonga:-
Nzamba Kitonga, BEST choice for CJ. Like Mutunga, he is an OUTSIDER. Unlike MUTUNGA he is NOT an ACTIVIST. He is MEASURED and BORING
The reason why Nzamba Kitonga stands out for me is his position on the Atheists and Homosexuals. Asked during his interview whether he would support their registration, he says that he has no qualms with it.
Lawyer Nzamba Kitonga says that the Constitution upholds Kenya as a secular state and he would stand on that premise when it comes to issues of Atheists and Homosexuals. This is a big move because the two groups have faced bitter opposition in their efforts to seek registration and recognition.
Already, the Attorney General directed the Registrar of Societies to suspend the registration of Atheists in Kenya. This was an irrational move because he bowed down to pressure from religious groups.
I bet by now that Nzamba Kitonga's views have pleased the Atheists and Homosexuals. It is just a matter of time before you see them voice their support for him publicly.
Already, this is happening in various forums such as social media. I am a witness to that.
The writer is a political and social analyst. He blogs at politicskenya.net