Presidential debates are worth their face value

Persons who expected to witness a fight between two alley cats on the July 19 debate between the two leading deputy presidential candidates, Martha Karua and Rigathi Gachagua, were seriously disappointed. First, the two politicians are neighbours back home, which could have made them rule out any vitriol. 

Basically, both surprised friend and foe. In the opinion of a colleague, Karua did not come with her claws out seeking to draw blood from her competitor. The latter’s antagonists also say he outperformed himself, a fact which pundits attributed to intense coaching on both style and content. Some even claim some of Gachagua’s answers were straight out of Google!

Anyway, the perception of a belligerent Karua belongs to a bygone era, and those still hanging onto this image are living in a time warp. The Iron Lady was cognisant of the fact that this was a presidential debate, not a parliamentary duel on an anti-corruption bill or a public rally. She needed to showcase her diplomatic skill and candour away from political theatrics.

The forum was also not part of her campaigns where bare knuckled fights are allowed. Much has been said about the performance of this forerunning pair during the debate, but we all know the truth behind each of them. In any case, a one-and-half-hour interview does not whitewash the legacy of the candidates. A sweet tooth is not equal to a full brain, or a clean soul. If you know you know!

As for the presidential one-man shows on Tuesday evening, the less said the better. Raila Odinga of Azimio expressed his reasons for skipping the event. It is up to Kenyans, both his supporters and critics, to judge the validity of his reasons from where he stands. As for Roots Party candidate George Wajackoyah, no one can really tell whether his storming in and out of the venue was part of his political stunts or really a matter of principle.

But truth be told, Agano presidential candidate David Mwaure was the man of the moment. Because of his lack of resources and political clout, he is hardly covered substantially in the media on daily news. So his being alone on stage was actually a boon to his campaign. Sadly, Kenyans resent rather than worship such righteousness. It is ironical that Christians are not rallying behind him en masse – someone said because he does not have deep pockets like those of their financial benefactors. 

Suffice it to say that Kenyans should not cast their votes based on how persuasive or eloquent one talks. We have heard it all. We were warned by Internal Security Minister Dr Fred Matiang’i that we risk having about 40 percent of our houses of representatives filled with fugitives and miscreants. These elections should mainly be about integrity, humility and wisdom, and not wiliness and the gift of the gab.

Well, as I said last time, we will reap what we sow. We should avoid the folly of cutting off your nose to spite your face. Let us elect who we may from emotions rather than reason and morality, but keep our peace for the next five years as our choices plunder and pillage the country.

— The  writer comments on international issues