I have always wanted to write a piece debunking ODM, one of the main protagonists in the Kenyan political crisis. There is a perception that ODM represents the aspiration of the oppressed masses while its antagonist PNU represents the oppressive State elite and apparatus. Nothing is far from the truth. My frustration is that ODM has camouflaged its anti-masses agenda through leftist and popular rhetoric. Consequently, an exposure of the different elements and interests in ODM is necessary if one is to understand the true nature of the crisis facing the country. A solution which is not informed by a clear understanding of the protagonists will only lead to bungled results.
Luckily, I do not have to write that piece myself because Mukoma wa Ngugi in her article “Understanding the Kenyan Opposition” has just done that. Ngugi’s analysis is very instructive and necessary reading for all who seem to give their advice on the way forward in Kenya. It is especially apt for the international community who seem not to understand what is playing out in Kenya. ODM like its counterpart the PNU is a gathering of pretenders, leftist activists, war-lords, and populists.
I strongly feel that any solution that does not hinge on advancing Kenya’s democratic and rule of law tradition as well as diversity and cohesiveness will play into the hands of these pretenders.
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