Applicants for CJ position must be honest, professional

Distinguished legal scholar Prof Makau Mutua displayed rare intellectual wit, courage and honesty during the interviews for the Chief Justice. The US-based professor handled all questions including the controversial ones meticulously and with utmost intellectual finesse. His outstanding presentation set him apart from the Kenyan dons who prefer to act as per the prevailing circumstances. Many have stooped so low and act like politicians choosing to pursue political correctness.

Intellectuals are supposed to be guided by the truth and facts at all time. Kenyan scholars have instead chosen the easier path of acting conveniently. To the men and women of letters, pursuing narrow personal interests is more important than a national cause. The professor stands for greater ideals not personal aggrandizement as is typical of his peers. What happened to intellectual courage and honesty among Kenyan scholars?