Action on Miguna, Judiciary threatens Uhuru's legacy

The mistreatment the Government has subjected Miguna Miguna to over the past few months has left many Kenyans hurt, confused, hopeless and embarrassed. While the law is meant to protect us all, its abuse by those mandated to enforce it has left a lot to be desired.

What has been happening to Miguna is a clear reflection of a deeply-rooted culture of impunity and arrogance by State officers. Yet the Government has allowed all this to happen. The much talked-about handshake between President Uhuru Kenyatta and NASA leader Raila Odinga, it seems, signified nothing. Some said it symbolized peace, unity and a fresh beginning but this is not true.

The police brutality we have fought against over the years is not about to go away if the way Miguna was manhandled at JKIA is anything to go by.

The GSU officers who attacked journalists at the airport appeared angry and vengeful. I am disappointed that armed police officers could become violent against unarmed civilians in the full glare of cameras without caring how their actions would affect the country, their careers and even those who love him.

To the President, your legacy is on trial. Your officers are on the loose, reigning terror on the legal justice system. If you are not affected by it, you should know that we are. Our country needs healing after the elections that left Kenya polarized.

Maybe our security forces need refresher courses and some training in etiquette. All communities should embrace tolerance, forgiveness and reconciliation. Above all, we needed peace and respect for the law. The Judiciary has had its challenges but outright defiance of court orders is unacceptable.