Here is why East Africa needs the corrupt, every-deal-is-possible Kenyan politicians
There seem to be no permanent friends and enemies in Kenyan politicians. Whenever a new dawn arrives, every politician has a chance to eat. Every deal is possible. No betrayal is unthinkable. It is pagan, transactional politics at its worst – and best. ILLUSTRATION | JOHN NYAGAH | NMG
Kenya has been roiled by opposition protests against the high cost of living, and the election that last August saw President William Ruto defeat veteran politician and former prime minister Raila Odinga.
Last Monday, the protests took a new twist. Hundreds of what has variously been called “goons” and “thugs” armed with machetes invaded an expansive farm owned by former president Uhuru Kenyatta’s family. They cut trees, set them on fire, and looted goats and sheep. Dramatic photographs followed on social media, with the farm invaders lugging looted animals on their backs and displaying the ones they had slaughtered.
