There'll be no revolution in Kenya anytime soon

Comedian Eric Omondi and musclemen demonstrate the high cost of living outside Parliament buildings in Nairobi on February 21, 2023. [Elvis Ogina, Standard]

Retired Chief Justice Willy Mutunga believes that a revolution has begun in Kenya. He is dead wrong. A comedian called Eric Omondi, and a band of bare-chested youth, have recently brandished protest placards outside Parliament buildings decrying the cost of living. Dr Mutunga thinks that Omondi and his train are revolutionaries. Narok Senator Ledama Ole Kina agrees. He has called on Omondi to join Azimio's efforts "to change Kenya."

It's a bad joke. There will be no revolution in Kenya anytime soon. Maybe in some years to come. For now, it is a lonely pipe dream. First, a revolution is not a mere change of guard. Nor do insurrections amount to revolutions. Second, revolutions don't happen in tribalised societies with blind ethnic political loyalties. Third, revolutions need protection from disciplined forces in the revolting country. Kenya scores terribly in each of the considerations.