Lessons for Kenyans from Donald Trumps Inauguration

The much awaited inauguration of President-elect Donald Trump is now consigned to the archives of world history. Many looked forward to this day with a great sense of anticipation and awakening, while others were and remain nervous about it.

A new dawn has emerged in the United States of America but the sense on the ground is one of a country divided right in the middle depending on whether one is pro-Republican or Democrat. It’s not a secret that President Trump is a controversial figure but the rejection of Hillary Clinton at the ballot did not make things any better.

We as Kenyans can draw parallels of sorts from this historic event. As in events of this nature, people get jittery sometimes. There was an impressive show of nationalism by the American people as they displayed the national flag.

The ceremony itself was very symbolic in that the reign of power was being passed on in a cordial atmosphere and most Americans rallied behind their leader irrespective of their political affiliation, colour or cultural persuasion.

 Notably, Hillary Clinton, President Trump’s opponent was in attendance a clear sign that politics is about competition and when you lose you must rally behind the winner for the unity of the country.

Perhaps not oblivious of the millions outside watching the ceremony, he clearly set one of the tones for his presidency as he announced to his listeners one of the themes of his presidency 'For too long, a small group in our nation's capital has reaped the rewards of government while the people have borne the cost.

Washington flourished but the people did not share in its wealth. Politicians prospered, but the jobs left and the factories closed.The establishment protected itself, but not the citizens of our country.

Their victories have not been your victories. Their triumphs have not been your triumphs and while they celebrated in our nation's capital there was little to celebrate for struggling families all across our land.’President Trump did not mince his words.

There were a few interesting observations at the ceremony itself and this is worth noting. Trump clearly had some kind words for his predecessor President Barack Obama.

He paid tribute to him over the way he (Obama) handled the transition process. There were moments in the ceremony where one could clearly see America's reverence for the presidency. Present at the ceremony was the 'club of American Presidents' all of whom were visibly enjoying the moment. The atmosphere was infectious.

A peaceful transition has just taken place and like Americans, Kenyans can also be proud of a peaceful change of government.

The office of the presidency in the US is an institution that rides above party politics and the national call to duty is the pride of the few Americans who have made it to the oval office. President Donald John Trump is the 45th President of the United States of America.

President Trump is rallying all Americans to the mission of restoring the pride and confidence of his nation and making it great again.

We are preparing for presidential election in August and whatever the outcome there must be a sense of goodwill and optimism about our country and its leadership.

We all must condemn attempts by some to divide the country. For it is only in unity lies strength. As political parties prepare to roll out their campaigns they must commit to ensuring that peace prevails in order to move Kenya forward.

Let the Kenyan dream unite us, as we work towards the common purpose of creating wealth for our nation.