We should bury colonial idea that some are above the law

The arguments between the Government and Miguna over his citizenship call for us to speak out

Kenyans were treated to a painful sequel in the citizenship case of Dr Miguna Miguna this week. The incident exposes real risks to citizenship rights, freedom of expression and the relationship between the Executive, the Judiciary and the citizens. More encouragingly, the public backlash to the way he has been treated again, demonstrates the maturing of a democratic nation that remains ahead of the State on this issue.

The repeated announcement by the Presidency, Immigration Director General and Government Spokesperson that the government would comply with the court orders was well received. With at least seven previously flouted court orders, these statements reflected the Building Bridges Initiative spirit. The open hand of national reconciliation would also be extended to one of Jubilee’s greatest dissenters.