Let's all rise against negative ethnicity

Tribalism in Kenya is indeed a major stumbling block to democracy as well as socio-economic development.

It persists since it provides an avenue through which state goodies and favours trickle down from those in power to their tribesmen.

Kenyan politics has been among the most "ethnic" in Africa. Before the coming of the colonialists, Kenyan tribes lived in their own distinct areas with their own cultures, from language, customs and myths of origin. The communities lived free from each other, save for some conflict over water and pasture for livestock.

When the British came, they brought with them the principle of divide and rule. They magnified differences among the various communities, instigating clashes whereby each community distrusted and fought the other. We have been divided on tribal grounds ever since.

As we approach the next elections we should be careful and chose the right leaders who will unite and offer better services.

Before elections, the Jubilee government led by President Uhuru Kenyatta and his deputy William Ruto should unite all Kenyans and condemn all leaders who preach hate speech and tribal politics. We need a better Kenya where all can speak the Kenyan language of peace, love and unity.