Kamatusa re-emergence brings back ethnic cleansing memories in Kanu era

The re-emergence of Kamatusa conjures up frightful memories on the herd instinct and the politics of ethnic mobilisation. Those behind this week’s Kamatusa meeting may wish to reflect on what the association signifies to the rest of the Kenyan nation. They may also wish to reflect on the impact of the herd instinct on the national fabric.

Elechi Amadi’s portrait of the herd instinct in the volume Sunset in Biafra ranks among the most poignant, anywhere. We operate in a universe in which there is comfort in the languor of the herd. If, perchance, we came under assault by some sea monster such as John Whyndham has discussed in The Kraken Wakes, we should easily find ourselves rallying together in defensive solidarity.