OPINION: Raila inauguration cites deep-seated cracks

The country is bracing itself for yet another showdown on December 12 during the Jamhuri Day commemoration.

This time, the Opposition leader and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga is planning to conduct a swearing-in ceremony where he has made it known that he shall be declared the “people’s president”. However controversial, an election was held and President Uhuru Kenyatta emerged winner after Raila withdrew from the race.

Below average election turn-out has cast doubts over the Government’s popularity. An earlier election was annulled by the Supreme Court.

Mr Kenyatta was later sworn in as President. While the Constitution does not envisage having two presidents at any given time, the jitters that the Opposition plan has elicited from the Government reflects genuine fears that the country is divided down the middle.

A new reality is emerging where a half of the country is solidly behind the Government while the other half is determined to reject and resist government legitimacy. The situation cannot be swept under the carpet.

Doing so will only postpone the problem. The onus is upon the Head of State to reach out to the millions of people who rallied behind Raila’s election boycott call. He needs to construct a political platform that can help build acceptance.

Shooting protestors and blocking meeting venues only hardens their resolve. Threats of treason charges and death sentences only make things worse.

The President should take the noble road and construct a genuine national dialogue platform.