I did. Just read the book. I raised virtually every issue in the book (with the PM) while I was working in the Prime Minister’s Office. Those claiming otherwise are either ignorant of the facts or dishonest. Fortunately, that’s not my problem.
What would you say to those who view your publication as an attempt to scuttle Raila Odinga’s presidential bid?
Again, let them read the book. If Raila’s presidential bid is scuttled by the truth, so be it. Life is not about Raila Odinga or Miguna Miguna. Life is bigger and much more significant than that. Raila was not created to be president. Nobody was. Not everything must be reduced to Raila’s quest for the presidency. Why shouldn’t we question corruption in Government and in the Office of the Prime Minister merely because Raila is desperate to be president? If anybody suggests that after reading my book, he or she would not deserve any further response.
Your book seems to be shaping political opinion already. Comment.
No comment. I hope and trust that the book speaks for itself.
Some of the revelations are damaging to certain individuals and border even on character assassination. Are you concerned that your book could get trapped in a legal gridlock?
I find your questions, particularly this one mischievous. A novice law student will educate you that truth is an absolute defence in these matters. If I say that I saw Mr X steal Y; and I actually did see Mr X do that; is that character assassination? If Mr Y tells me that one such and such a day, I did Z; and I report that; why is that character assassination? Why is it only character assassination when thieves, looters and drug dealers are exposed? Deal with the facts staring you in the face from every quarter in this country. Do your job as a journalist and tell Kenyans the truth. Avoid the cowardly temptation to bury your head in the sand. That tendency and culture must end and end fast. It is sickening...
What next for Miguna after publication of “Peeling Back The Mask”?
I’m thoroughly enjoying both the praise and the criticism, the attacks and the abuse. These are the manure on which intellectuals, thinkers and writers thrive. As the noise continues, I’m already putting ideas and materials together on two more books. I thank you for the interview.
