Palaver

Palaver

We like what we are hearing from Internal Security minister Katoo ole Metito. Okay, so he hinted at some ominous fate awaiting separatist MRC operatives, so what? And now he has ordered Police Commish Mathew Iteere to promote and acknowledge officers that intercepted explosive devices designed for some serious fireworks and “deathworks” at the just-concluded Nairobi International Trade Fair. Those who first appeared opposed to the youthful minister’s elevation to that crucial docket must remember that it is not the size of the dog that matters. Rather it is the size of the fight in the dog.

 

Palaver salutes Narc Kenya party leader and presidential aspirant Martha Karua’s plea to President Kibaki to reject MPs’ bid to raise their send-off package with a Sh9.3 million gratuity each. Is it mere populist talk? Maybe. It is, however, disheartening that it comes just days after government engaged doctors and teachers in drawn-out “negotiations” for implementation of a very old pay deal. Then came the ferry workers, and now, nurses in Kisumu and, of course, the loud silence about police allowances.

 

Oops! Seems like campaigning from the open top of your four-wheel-drive all-terrain vehicle might just be the only way to get around to seeing a few more sunrises. Yesterday, Bossman Harun Mwau had to be spirited into a neighbouring house to escape a bloodthirsty mob. Only after throwing some wads of cash that left the would-be attackers scrambling for the notes did he get to escape. Last week, Fisheries minister Amason Kingi saw his bodyguard hacked to death by zealots whose mission is yet to be determined. A while back, we saw  Kalembe Ndile chasing and jumping onto a moving Land Rover to avoid a lynch mob. Then there were the goons who peeled off Miguna Miguna’s cap and shoe, for merely expressing his opinion!

 

And finally…

Remember Alabama-born Omar Shafik Hammami known by his “trade” name Abu Mansoor al-Amriki? He was the very vocal leader of Somalia’s Al-Shabaab. and spent much time on YouTube, Facebook, videos and other Web sites to spread Al Shabaab’s propaganda. Wonder how the 28-year-old is faring now that he cannot charge his electronic gadgets in the forests of Kismayu after KDF literally ran his outfit out of town.

 

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