Of Positive Ethnicity and Tribalism

Of Positive Ethnicity and Tribalism

BY MUSYOKA NGUI

David Rudisha celebrates his victory. Photo/Reuters

Following Kenya emerging top of the world a tweef came up pitting Chief Justice Willy Mutunga against Nairobi lawyer Donald Kipkorir.

Kipkorir appeared to imply that Kalenjins won for Kenya, sentiments which prompted the CJ to point out that the learned friend  shamelessly posted ethnic comments.

Opinion on Twitter was divided on what to make of the credit of the champions. Kenya scooped 16 medals among them 7 gold, 6 silver and 3 bronze.

In fact, Kenyans from different ethnic shades won with Kalenjin dominating the ranks. Perhaps we should embrace more diversity, unity and tolerance while celebrating our champs.

This comes hot in the heels political analyst Mutahi Ngunyi who is being probed by the National Cohesion and Integration Commission on comments he made against a certain tribe perceived to be derogatory. He has since apologized for the same. Law Society of Kenya CEO Apollo Mboya had threatened to sue the researcher famed for his tyranny of numbers theory.

In the past, Gatundu South MP Moses Kuria was also told to apologize for hate speech remarks he posted on Facebook. 

Chapter Four of New Constitution 2010 guarantees free speech and cites limits for hate speech with the latter lacking clear definition. It is a delicate balance between enjoying personal liberties and taking responsibilities.