Let’s confront the challenge of our political tribalism

It appears Kenya has brought herself to yet another brink of ethnic conflict. It has been extremely disheartening to see members of various communities literally fleeing from their neighbours in a perceived fear that they might be victims of ethnic violence prior to, during, or after the Saba Saba rally. Of course, there is a sense in which these flights may be an overreaction, yet these fears are not without merit. Considering the high pitched negative rhetoric spewing out of the lips of our leaders from both sides of the political divide, one is justified taking whatever precautions they can  to ensure safety of their families. Even Nairobians are reportedly stocking up in preparation for any eventuality.

The big question, however, is just how we suddenly got ourselves into this situation. This is a question that appears simple and yet not quite so. On the easier side, the blame can be placed squarely at the doorstep of CORD who, out of the blues started agitating for national dialogue. On the more difficult side though, is just how masses suddenly congregated in droves at these apparently rudderless rallies.