Saturday 29 December 2012

I HONESTLY KNOW, CHILD

I KNOW, CHILD... All night long, I will keep wondering why you are bound not to ask why, Why the huge smile from my heart, Why the bliss, the secret peace whose slap will always come strong? Why the worry, Though miles away, Any time wrinkles of sadness forms in your gorgeous face, Or when the slap of the world, Leaves a bruise in your heart, Why mine shadow now cares so much about the sly wind, So it might not suddenly blow your way, And leave you a mark, So it will steal the warmth, And deny you the peace of the heart, Emily. *** In-between the syllables of this poem, Mine soul keeps embracing a stranger, An alien whose shadow I have sniffed, Wrestled with numerous bargains… Of the worries that come with the distance, the space between an aging man and his beloved Emily, that keeps growing unfriendly each minute… Yet I know you wouldn’t ask why I will even sacrifice the atonements, Skip the feasts, and prefer the silent moments, Wiping away tears from imaginary eyes, Lighting the candles, So the blanket of night, Will not cover your rays of hope, And make you cry! *** “I am more than ready, though,” says his shadow, Inside- It knows it will be a bed of roses and thorns, Innocent laughter of her great eyes, Its pleasing echo, That will ring in the ears of its heart for ages: Inside-It knows even if she dares not to shun its humble gesture, It will be so long a journey, With cordial embraces, coldest handshakes, There will be times so hard, Grandpa, You will wish you were never set forth; So, you will cry and cry and cry, Fall into the arms of fate, Recalling those would-be indispensable minutes, Yearning for those moments, Yet another retreat, To where you are bound to start from, Inside- It knows – so you should, Emily. The fierce army in-waiting will be there, Slowly engaging in a conspiracy, To bring demise to your would-be joyous days, So strong they will come, With subtle, unkind tell-tales, But inside, It knows, your love will be bold, Fenced with a fabric of passion, coated with a firm volition Of never despairing! You will go past the obstacles, the darkest of the moments, Through the narrowness of lady luck, Abreast the inner passion, That will fight for your love, You will together untie the knot of pessimism, And wear the white robe, Plausible ray of light, In the depths of darkness! © Cheruo Levi Cheptora

AN OPEN LETTER TO MWAI EMILIO KIBAKI

Kenyan President Mwai Kibaki (born 1931) ushered in an era of change upon his election, pledging to restore his country's economy and wipe out government corruption. Kibaki succeeded President Daniel arap Moi, under whom Kibaki served as vice - president. Moi took office in 1978 and remained in office for 24 years. Kibaki launched his campaign for the presidency in 1992, when the Kenyan constitution first allowed opposition parties to participate in the country's government. After two unsuccessful bids, Kenyans overwhelmingly elected him to the post in 2002. Unlike during Moi’s era when looting of public coffers was rampant, large-scale and solely centred around the Moi’s family & his notorious cronies like Total Man; your tenure in office only did managed to register a handful of vices of that nature notably the Anglo Leasing Scandal, Grand Regency Scandal, land grabbing’s here and there and well, of course we cannot forget the mysterious disappearances of Forms 16 A when Kivuitu Failed to Tell the nation who had won the 2007 General Elections! Sir, remember forty two tribes elected you unanimously back in 2002. They cared the least whether you were from the ever mighty MUMBI house or not. They simply believed in you. Down the line, it is alleged that you wholeheartedly, helplessly and willingly embrace your ‘own’. Those cronies that have always surrounded you ensured the National Cake was distributed disproportionally towards their own (e.g. funding massive infrastructural projects in Thika, Gatanga and many other parts in Central Kenya). We saw this and we were not happy. We never celebrated when your office ensured every successive list of Prospective Public Servants had a majority of names from the MUMBI house. And that is why many of us chose not to vote for you in 2007! More vital, Kenyans will never forget witnessing you promulgating the New Kenyan Constitution (20110). We heaved with ecstasy, bliss, anticipation and everyone felt a new wave of change surging in our midst! It is unfortunate that under your very watch, impunity-inspired sentiments are beginning to clot the new constitution. You and I know the County Commissioners are illegally implanted in their offices. I will forever remember your name should you rise up beyond the apparent ‘love for self’ inculcated in those around you whom are known for perennial run-away impunity, and say a FAT, ROUND NO to County Commissioners! We will be a happy lot should you help us mitigate this renewed resurgence of impunity, not forgetting the tribal hooks & animosities that currently hold us tight together! As you prepare to retire honourably, I would love to join other Kenyans in wishing you a meaningful rest. Just like an ideal coin and any normal human being, you had commendable merits and lamentable demerits. I know it is with mixed feelings you are setting out at last. Given a chance, perhaps you wouldn’t have minded ruling us for the next a hundred years, just like your peer Mugabe Robert aspires! We will miss your jokes and your level-headedness. Mama Lucy will also be dearly missed by the journalists and your staff in statehouse. May God’s mercies and graces be upon you for as long as you live! ©2012 Cheruo Levi Cheptora

LETS EMBRACE 2013 WITH ABSOLUTE SANITY AND SOBRIETY

As we bid a solemn goodbye to the year 2012, let us include in our numerous list of resolutions for the forthcoming brand new year 2013, one most important promise: that as Kenyans, never again are we ever going to find ourselves in the murderous situation that has prevailed in the country for days on end. Never again are we going to meekly heed the preaching of hateful tribe-chiefs and ethnic lords whose massive quest is to protect their pockets by hook or crook (by using our vulnerable brothers who are jobless and without means of surviving the trying moments characterized by massive financial challenges and economic struggles). Never ever again will we allow a few politicians to set brother against brother, neighbour against neighbour and sister against sister! Yes indeed. It is time Kenyans must re-discover their uniqueness and massive potential enshrined in their diversity. It is time for Kenyans to move forward meaningfully – set the unwinding path straight than ever before and embrace political sanity and sobriety. More so, it is time we turn back to God as a nation; be prayerful, remorseful and repentantly oblige to His eternal call engulfed in kindness, love, and enormous understanding. Indeed, a nation without God is like an orphaned child – without proper upbringing and vulnerable to evils from every possible enemies and angle! It shouldn’t matter a thing the number of ministries and the burden of effecting the new constitution. It doesn’t matter the mysterious ministries of beautifying what and what that has clot and clouded the spirit of effectively and efficiently serving Kenyans for the last many years. There should be no problem either with the additional, eager and would-be ungracious pockets to stuff more millions from our public till. Or rather the heavy burden placed squarely in our heads- what is important is that we will be able to live together; just as before, as Kenyans, we are going to live like brothers and sisters! As Kenyans, we are now wiser. Soon, the ‘bad beans’ will be out in the cold. The shrewd ‘suckers’ will surely be shown the door. For long, some had abandoned their electorate. They had neglected me and you and never bothered whether our roads were passable or impassable. The poorly maintained social amenities in our neighbourhood never meant a thing to them. Many were engaging themselves in noise making sessions in parliament (instead of enacting worthy laws for our country) and enriching their families instead. Armed with a voter’s card, we are going to hire and fire! And fire mercilessly we will! Until then, let’s sharpen our appetite to usher in yet another new dawn with fresh awakening! HAPPY NEW YEAR 2013! ©2012 Cheruo Levi Cheptora

THE RETURN OF MAYHEM IN OUR MOTHERLAND

Terror, confusion, fear, trauma among other not-so-kind gestures; are the trademarks of the once dreaded S.L.D.F Militia that served as a platform for power-ascendancy back in 2007 for some local politicians. The symptoms are here yet again with severe signs exhibited in Nomorio, Gituamba, Kimobo and Kaptama (a recent attack being yesterday night). The ‘boys’ whom a number of politicians are used to arming, have loose tongues and easily let go their secret escapades and occasional dilly-dallying with a number of people long known as ‘Elgon Mafias’. I have a not-so lovely date with you once the leaked information is accredited and verified. I’ll name and shame you and forward the stunning revelations to relevant bodies. If you think you will kill, maim, torture and enslave my friends, relatives and kinsmen so you can easily walk easily the ‘tight’ rope; better think twice this time round! We are tired of these senseless killings and the terror your ‘boys’ are unleashing! More so, a close source has informed me of possible collusions between the ‘boys’ & the Security Personnel (who are apparently helpless) as the invincible enemies of the people wander around freely during the nights! Hawa majamaa waende transfer Baragoi kaa wameshindwa na kazi! Na wakome kukusanya hongo barabarani na kushika akina mama pima vijijini! ©Cheruo Levi Cheptora

Wednesday 28 November 2012

LET US JUDGE EVERY ASPIRANTS ACCORDING TO THEIR PAST RECORDS SOLELY

It is election season once again. A season that Kenyans always embrace with mixed feelings: a time to scramble for cash and gifts from a handful of the greatest thieves of Kenya and the would-be ‘great thieves indeed’. A time much despised and feared by ‘explorers’ who have been accidentally milking a cow they have never herd since independence; a period of imminent disaster and an ever vague tomorrow! Politicians have always known the issues that deeply concern us (including those that divides us), and will be harping on them to touch our hearts, coat our innocence with tribal goggles and woe our votes by hook or crook. Theirs will ever remain “A life time conspiracy to steal, maim, murder, live large and steal again and again!”As such, armed with our stolen money, they are more than ready to play a cruel game we’ve never mastered its unscrupulous rules! One of the long running and perennial concerns of Kenyans is the runaway corruption in our public processes. In 2002 as well as in 2007, corruption had been a key campaign issue. Already it is an issue on the lips of many politicians indicating that the coming general elections will be no different. But considering the lessons of the last 10 years, should we take mere promises and the mere mumbo jumbo to do away with corruption and other massive theft of public coffers for good? What must we do to avoid being taken for a ride by corn artists who are either deeply rooted in grand corruption or are the greatest and loudest defenders of those suspected of looting public coffers? Considering the undisputed fact that our legal system has been unwilling or incapable of delivering justice in matters of corruption for years on end, we cannot just look at convictions or lack of it, as the basis for determining people’s fitness to hold office. In other words an acquittal is not, especially in our circumstances, conclusive proof of innocence. Failure to be prosecuted should also not be the standard for determining who, from an ethical perspective, qualifies to be our leader. As Kenyans who are tired to the bone with hypocritical leadership, we need to turn a leaf in the way we elect our leaders. It is time we take an about-turn and say enough is enough. Indeed, it is time we stand united and shun every tribal hook, every single nepotism shred and set the record straight once and for all. We must examine records of every would-be political master keenly to understand what they will likely become if we give them the mandate to guard our hard-earned wealth. We must base our decisions on people’s record in shunning and fighting corruption. Mere rhetoric is not enough. An eloquent character won’t deliver us from this bondage of slavery unless his or her past is scrutinized, questioned, judged rationally and determined by a fair and just mind. Candidates should articulate what they have done and plan to do to fight corruption. We need to subject this rhetoric to their past record and assess whether it is worth believing or not. © 2012 Cheruo Levi Cheptora

Monday 26 November 2012

THE TRUEST SABAOT AT HEART WHO IS MADLY IN LOVE WITH HIS COMMUNITY

Exactly a year and a half today, Daniel Psirmoi, then unknown fully to me, offered to interview me as far as my first ever publication was concerned: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/245114. Many of you read the interview and this served as a milestone regarding my part-time career as an author. Daniel became a friend, almost an elder brother to me. In highs and lows, he has remained a truest friend I’ll ever have! Like to most of you, his sincerity, charisma and understanding has always remained fresh in my mind. He has proven, time and again, that he cares for our motherland...his numerous writings have helped opened a third eye and ear of our community. True, many a Sabaot can now hear and see clearly as far as matters politics are concerned. Today, I honestly must congratulate him for the achievements that he has so far registered, notably, his latest appointment as a Standard Newspaper Correspondent for Bungoma County. Daniel may God’s graces and mercies be upon you ever. Kindly surge forward meaningfully, walk the talk, and be a good ‘boy’ I have always known. As my gift, I’ll dedicate one of my forthcoming novels to you: for being a mentor, an inspiration, a motivator and above all, THE TRUEST SABAOT AT HEART WHO IS MADLY IN LOVE WITH HIS COMMUNITY! © 2012 Cheruo Levi Cheptora
I just realized that when we stick to our ignorance as a society, clinch our 'love for self' fist, resist every sound gesture by good-willed people; then we are doomed to fail...forever, we will be dragging our heavy feet headed to nowhere in particular and inevitably, a time will come when we will wish we had rather hearken to the voice of reason....

Saturday 24 November 2012

WHO IS TO BLAME FOR MOUNT ELGON WOES?

WHO IS TO BLAME FOR MOUNT ELGON WOES? Gone now are the nightmares of the horror movie stirred by One Wycliffe Komon Kirui Matakwei and his ruthless army of die-heard ‘butchers’. It is business as usual and people are going on with their normal activities. The spell-binding beauty of the Mountain is eternally irresistible once you grace the footsteps of MT. Elgon. The ever green sight is usually refreshing, welcoming and you instantly feel at home...Across the strip of forested land bordering Mount Elgon Forest Reserve, women and their children are ever busy striving to make ends meet. From Kaberwa, Kongit, Kaboywo to Kiborowa, they usually trade in charcoal (apparently the main economic activity of many a Sabaot House-wife). A Forty Five Minute journey via motorcycles from Kaptama, takes you to Kapsokwony: the Head-Quarters of Mount Elgon District. The Class-D tarmac road is of age now and the carelessly floored road is vulnerable to erosion. Commissioned back in July 2007 by President Mwai Emilio Kibaki, the then ambitious KAMUKUYWA-KAPTAMA-KAPSOKWONY-KOPSIRO-NAMWELA project is yet to be completed and has ever since been diverted to KIMILILI from Kapsokwony (courtesy of the wielders of power and run-away corrupt gestures encouraged by KUNDANI SIGNH, the contractors mandated to complete the project). Kapsokwony is now a home of Transit-Goods locomotives, occasionally criss-crossing the district in search of timber and other forest products. The once thick forest which was a home for wild-life is slowly being reduced to an expansive open land. Relatives and friends of mine have complained day in day out and even reported illegal activities as far as harvesting of trees is concerned, yet no one from the District Headquarters Offices has ever responded. Moreover, in spite of the heavy deployment and presence of security personnel in the District Headquarters, we still hear of gunmen attacks and killings of Mount Elgon Residents. Night clubs and drinking joints are now homes for these law-enforcers and their main activity has since effectively been transformed into ‘heart’ issues with locals. It is feared that on the contrary, they are siring kids and spreading STIs amongst the residents and their fellow law-enforcers instead. The grand question I have been asking myself is: who is to blame for all this mess? Who is to shoulder the woes bedevilling our beloved motherland? Indeed, like they usually say, time will tell! For the time being, man must live!!! ©2012 Cheruo Levi Cheptora

Wednesday 21 November 2012

CRY THE MOST BELOVED MAMA (KENYA)

First, came the PEV after the contested elections of 2007, killing close to one and a half thousand innocent Kenyans. Exactly seventy two hours later, following the unceremonious announcement of the presidential elections: mother Kenya descended into untold chaos. Trauma embraced every soul. Mother Kenya (considered one of the most stable and economically developed states in Africa), was on the verge of tearing apart. In almost every corner of the republic, neighbour turned against neighbour. Old scores were settled with machetes and pangas. Across the awesome land, beyond the spell binding and beautiful highlands; rapes, mutilations and communal violence gripped the country with such awesome might. Children were orphaned, neighbours were pulled apart, and friends were separated. Couples were disunited and thousands lost what they had called home all their miserable years here on earth. Communities lost trust it had on each other. Marriages were forcibly broken. A robust economy was hence dealt a severe body blow; it will take years, blood and sweat to recover. Then there was the Mungiki menace, the subsequent extra-judicial killings and the dreadful S.L.D.F Militia which embarked on a killing spree, butchering fellow tribesmen, drinking their blood and eating parts of their bodies... The world watched, we waited, time tickled, passing by carelessly and uncaring and still; we were proud to be Kenyans: we hoisted the national flag happily and sang the national anthem with exaggerated enthusiasm. We continued priding in our leadership and hoped for the better. Nearly five years down the line, Al-Shabab descended upon our ‘haven of peace’, spreading terror, shelling buildings, and denying our economy a chance to flex its muscles through tourism and other vital activities. What started as rag tag army in Somalia was slowly revolutionizing into a sophisticated guerrilla outfit. True, it was believed to be sending the government security personnel into desperation as they chase what could only be declared as “shadows of invincible enemies of the people.”It was well equipped and fully backed by the residents of Somalia. The inevitable ‘Operation Linda Nchi’ came with mixed fortunes: the world now thinks we are a little safer (that they can trade freely without worrying about their precious necks), yet still their sympathizers are sending shivers across the peace-loving nation as they bomb churches, Matatus, business premises and hell knows where else! Just a few days ago, the Samburu Bandits claimed close to fifty security personnel in what has been described as the worst fatal ‘mission-impossible’ ever undertaken by our Police men and women! We are getting used to it, or so it may seem. Deaths of innocent Kenyans under the now ever-cruel and merciless arms of Al-Shabab, bandits, and armed robbers and law-breakers; doesn’t stifle any one anymore. It’s so natural and the government machinery seems helpless, or even unwilling to lift their ‘burden –loaded’ fingers. Talk of the symptoms of the end of the world or simply a society gone t0 the dogs...whichever the case, we must think hard as a nation and embrace sanity and sobriety! © 2012 Cheruo Levi Cheptora

Friday 16 November 2012

TALK OF BAD MOTHERS, BAD FATHERS, BAD BOYS AND GIRLS OF 21ST CENTURY

Unlike back in my village, the people of Rangwe, Homabay; appeared disciplined, organized and culture-sensitive lot during the day we arrived to mourn the father of our fellow comrade sometime last year. It had been a long, tiresome and sombre journey...True, Luos do respect the dead and normally accord them a descend send off, a nd so are many other African Communities. Having subsequently attended a handful of other burial ceremonies of friends and relatives(including that of my late grandfather two months ago) back in my motherland (Mount Elgon), I came to realize the exaggerated extend to which my community has gone in trampling down its culture and esteemed norms. Respect for the dead is no longer a concern and mourning has been since effectively replaced with a celebration that never ends until the deceased has been laid down to rest. People are usually all over the compound. Dozens of bulls are slaughtered; wines and spirits (in our case, Chang’aa & Busaa) are normally in abundance. And so are delicious meals. The relish is eternally awesome, yet grown ups usually fight over left-over’s and wrestle still over Busaa & Chang’aa, day in day out! During the night, young and old, parents and their children usually demand for secular music (after which they dance, wiggle their buttocks and shake their bodies); some drink themselves stupid and engage in sexual activities in the fool glare of the moon and kids will be sired moths later… It is always a battle to flex ones sinful muscles and outwit each other when all they ought to do, is to mourn their beloved and offer them their last respect! It seems in the end that friends and relatives usually come in the hope of confirming whether the deceased is really dead or had just fabricated the whole thing. Others wail bitterly, and then in the darkness, scream that such was a gentle riddance! Others are normally busy distributing the few belongings of the departed amongst themselves, fighting over the same and hell knows what else! After the inevitable send off, life is bound to go on normally. Nobody cares anymore. And they will forget about it and still, yearn for yet another burial ceremony, for yet another night-adventure, for yet another chance to flex their sinful muscles! ©2012 Cheruo Levi Cheptora

Wednesday 7 November 2012

THE ‘TRIBAL’ FACTOR IN USA-OBAMA RE-ELECTION

America has ever since pride itself in exceptional democratic credentials, maximum ‘tribal’, sorry, racial tolerance, nobility, and civilization...the just concluded elections have accidentally unearthed fissures and in effect, showed that the mighty nation (just like most of African & Asian nations), is also capable of flexing its ‘tribal’ muscles! Republican Mitt Romney is on record for “winning the votes of white male and female voters in what has been a ‘bitter’ desire to dislodge President Barack Obama, but among all other ethnic groups, Romney did trailed by large margins”, according to a Reuters/Ipsos exit poll on Tuesday. The Report further asserts that: “White male voters chose Romney by about a 20-point margin, while white female voters favoured the former Massachusetts governor by more than a 10-point margin, according to the poll.” More so, Black-Americans and other ‘non-natives’, notably Americans of Mexican Origin, did casted their votes in favour of Barack Obama Husein! The helpless disenchantment amongst ‘American Natives’ has since been prevalent since it emerged that Obama will carry the day once again! The Multi-Dollar-Billionaire, Trump, has tweeted his resentment and regretted the American’s Big Decision. “The electoral college is a disaster for a democracy”, read one of the tweets. “Our nation is now in serious & unprecedented trouble...like never before.” Read another tweet. While ‘pure whites’ are mourning, the other lot are celebrating and are happy to give Obama yet another chance to write ‘every perceived wrong’ and fulfil the many promises Democrats have been pinning down by hook or crook! Here in Kenya, mixed feelings have greeted the grand news. However, it is evident that a majority are happy to see one of their ‘own’ again in the most respected seats in the world. For the time being, we can only hope...we kindly wish him all the best! Bravo thumps up, kudos Mr. President! ©2012 Cheruo Levi Cheptora

Tuesday 6 November 2012

THE KENYAN OBAMA: PETER KENNETH (OUR ONLY ULTIMATE SAVIOR).

I honestly see another Obama in Peter Kenneth: the charisma, the youthfulness, the bravery, the genuine concern he has for many of our woes as a nation, and what he has already done for the people of Gatanga. Dear Kenyans, fellow country men, let's rise beyond our love for self and destructive desire for tribe; retrogressive, archaic & unhealthy politicking, just to name but a few and embrace political sobriety and give Peter Kenneth to take us where we ought to be as a country. Its five score years now since our freedom fighters liberated our beloved country from the oppressive, demeaning, inhuman and enslaving hands of the Britons. It was with jubilation, ululations and Hosannas that the new sphere of freedom was ushered in...five score years down the line, we are yet to do away with abject poverty subjected to over thirty nine million Kenyans; we are yet to perfect our health system, our education system and dozens of other public sectors (all courtesy of poor leadership, hypocritical tendencies and enormous love for self). Many years ago, a great orator, a respected human rights activists, a famed civil rights activist (his name is Martin Luther Junior), intoned : "An individual has not started living until he can rise above the narrow confines of his individualistic concerns to the broader concerns of all humanity." Today, I must echo his heartfelt cry. I must alike remind each one of us that it has to be 2013 or never again... Kenya is a nation of ten multimillionaire families and slightly over Thirty Nine Million helpless beggars (Indeed, courtesy of the masses ear-splitting silence and aloofness). It is a country whose systems are enshrined in shrewdness and massive corrupt gestures; a Nation whose respectable leaders lies, kill and torture without a slight blink of an eye. In his speech the other day while launching his presidential bid, Peter Kenneth moved many a Kenyans. He reminded us of respected economies of the world; its architects, its schemers and their manoeuvrings to realize their cherished dreams. For the very first time, I personally felt proud to be a Kenyan. I saw sense in his rhetoric, I believed very word he said and I as well embraced the fact that they were not only achievable, but very realistic! Given a chance, Kenya will see and go places. It will reclaim its tarnished image and behind it, will trail a series of credentials! ©2012 Cheruo Levi Cheptora

Thursday 25 October 2012

EMMI-THE LOVE OF MY LIFE

Penniless I came to her,all I had was just my love Burning with desire,to hold her soul close to me Written was innocence,all over her dazzling face Causing great trouble,and discomfort in my heart Never will a minute pass,without pausing to think of her Little did I knew,the rich vultures were watching her I decided to go to court,to prosecute dear Emmy For stealing all my soul,and departing for the unknown Helpless I watched Emmy,as the vultures preyed her soul And the dodges she managed,in between lion's claws All the money they had for her,yet Emmy became unmoved Standing even firm,coz' I had won her soul Frustration left my heart,yet I could not believe her I doubted all the thing,coz' it could not be the truth So wonderful was the day,our souls were united Attended by the few,yet so worthy to remember So desperate shall I be,to always seek Emmy's nest To make it, a house for me And have peace,forever more All the days of our lives,here on earth… Never will I ever forget,the things we dit together All those nights,all those days The merry laughter,the sweetest moments With Emmi-the love of my life All the whispers to me,all the secret smiles Sitting by the fire,cracking jokes with Emmi All in peace my soul was,has been,will be... She has my heart,and so do I.

MY SUPPOSEDLY FUTURE WIFE

Her stare was dull,coiled with uncerternity I saw the unwavering dilemma,the lack of consent Many a day,many a night We've been together in that homely utopia Hoping all will be alright There were times so hard We cried and cried and cried Wishing we were never set forth And she had been the man Telling me of our other true friend:pain! We shook hands with it every minute of our lives We wrestled with its bargains We sniffed its distant innocence And I knew will ever be best of friends… And I never anticipated the tides will change soon The ill wind blew untimely Covering our once plausible rays of hope with a thick blanket of despair And mine became fanciful ideas Unreal myths.I reminded her of those moments together The merry laughter,the tears yes and of course the pain Of the inside contentment And the seemingly vague tomorrow But she wouldn't listen to me… She turned to go and I couldn't do a thing… The looming,dark blanket lay somewhere ahead I would have loved to warn her Of the mist,the vague tomorrow… True I lacked the muscles,my wallet was thin But mine heart was huge,patiently waiting to embrace her My future wife welcomed the wisest counsel Of ignoring me On and on she moved away Blindfolded,lured by secret sneering, cheerer And the clever fools who are indeed my true enemies! I recalled with penury,tears,bitterness How I would tell Mama that:there goes my future wife About the secret golden ring I would have made her wear And the now icy touch of her once-genuine laughter As I sat there,watching helplessly as my future wife carelessly caressed the seemingly kind face of a promising tomorrow, I prayed inwardly for fate she had dated earlier to have mercy on her True,the path she was now following was headed for a devoid abyss And I knew I will never see my future wife again…

KENYANS WILL BE READY FOR A FEMALE PRESIDENT IN 2100!

To be realistic, our Kenyan society has complex perceptions about 'women leadership' and a great deal of men is seemingly ever suspicious and afraid of such advancements. This is echoed by the apparent stale mate to fully effect the 2:1 ratio slated in the new constitution(courtesy of a good chunk of the male parliamentarians). Consequently, it will take many years for us to embrace political sobriety and ignore gender as a factor when it comes to leadership and other societal roles! Martha Karua for instance, has an extremely strong personality and has since effectively emancipated herself from the perceived 'cruel jaws of male chauvinism'! Similarly, a horde of others notably Shabesh Rachel, Njoki Ndung’u, Charity Ngilu & Reverent Margaret Wanjiru; do exhibit such tendencies of having liberated themselves from the eternally ‘enslaving’ male domination! Either Martha or Ngilu can make a great leader, yes, yet the way things stand, their chances to succeed Mwai Kibaki might be equally very slim! Traditionally, male leadership has been adored in our Country and convincing a whole generation of hard-lined ‘conservatives’, might not be an easy ride for the two female presidential candidates! On a prophetic gear, our beloved country will be ripe enough to accommodate a female president in the year 2100! As much as I honestly wish them the best of luck, it is quite unfortunate to note that theirs is inevitably a ‘losing battle’. I must, however, loud their persistent, consistent and constant struggle to add meaning in many a Kenyan woman’s life...they have been an inspiration, a role model and a motivator to many a young girl. Kudos, bravo, thumbs up!!! © Cheruo Levi Cheptora 2012

M.R.C ARE SUCCESSFUL FAILURES AND THEIR QUEST UNREALISTIC

Historically, a form of layered sovereignty applied to East Africa’s coast that left the region’s city-states and communities free to conduct their affairs as long as they remitted taxes and duties to Zanzibar. This ended in 1963 with the integration of the coastal protectorate into the Republic of Kenya. The coastal leaders supporting the majimbo platform of the Kenya African Democratic Union (KADU)—adopted in opposition to the mwambao movement’s campaign for independence—saw their hopes for a large degree of self-rule dashed under Kenyatta’s centralist government. Banner (2008) states that, “efforts to secure coastal autonomy represent a regionally and historically specific type of sovereignty pursued by mwambao activists not simply to guard political and material privileges, but more broadly to express a language of political legitimacy that still resonates today.” While coastal communities have always nurtured the desire to exert sovereignty over their own affairs, land, and resources, the rise of the Mombasa Republican Council over the past year has imbued the issue with a renewed vibrancy and purpose. The coastal communities’ fears over losing control of land and key economic resources in 1963 were realized over the next five decades. This has led to a crisis of state legitimacy. Post-independence social exclusion and regional development rigged in favour of outsiders and local elites has led to a situation where members of the indigenous population now refer to themselves as “Coasterians” and to the non-coastal settlers as “Kenyans”. A surprising sense of unity is replacing the acrimony persisting in the wake of the self-governing mwambao and federalist majimbo campaigns during the run-up to independence in 1963. The Mombasa Republican Council is the unlikely agent of this emergent coast nationalism. Although formed at a time when other disaffected parties were contemplating militant forms of resistance, the MRC has ostensibly distanced itself from the region’s acquiescent politicians by challenging the historical agreements leading to the coast’s integration into modern Kenya. A 2008 ban on it remains in effect even after a Kenyan court dismissed charges accusing the MRC of being an armed gang. Even though their grievances might be genuine, their resorting to violence and other ugly measures inevitably renders them a ‘successful failure’ indeed. Worse, unlike in the days of the late Ronald Ngala & Sharif Nasir, when the coastal region had real leadership, the current fashion of leaders is shaky, un-tameable, unpredictable and are either unwilling to openly declare their support for M.C.R or are simply not for them! Moreover, M.R.C has since been outlawed and consequently, the government has declared a fully fledged crack down! It seems natural now for Omar Mwanamuzi and Mraja to surrender, denounce their ‘illegal’ activities and announce to their loyal followers that they have just realized ‘Pwani ni Kenya’, will always be Kenya, wapende wakatae! © Cheruo Levi Cheptora 2012

Friday 19 October 2012

THE GRAND CORRUPTION IN THE UNIVERSITY OF NAIROBI

Greed, theft and corruption... just to mention but a few, is all flesh and blood of ‘living a lie a day at a time’. This characterizes the much despised UoN Staff members who are responsible for murdering, in cold blood, many a dream of comrades. Many a day, they have generously trampled upon mercilessly and eagerly envelop aspirations and ambitions of young men and women in a cloud of the ever seemingly misty tomorrow! Under-paid watchmen, peanut-salaried UoN Staff, do drive limousines, own bungalows and are known to have taken their kids abroad to receive a much better education; all courtesy of witch handing and cash solicited via ungodly channels(mainly corrupt deals). Most notorious is the S.W.A Staff Members who have since perfected their crooked means of undermining a comrade’s life. It must be remembered that J.A.B normally ascribes its annually lists of prospective students to bed capacities availed by every public university. Essentially, this means that every comrade is entitled to a bed. Ironically, S.W.A has since sneaked a clause in the Institution’s Rules and Regulations which seeks not to guarantee you and me a bed! Surprisingly, Module Two comrades, courtesy of their connections and fat wallets, do openly enjoy accommodation services in the expense of numerous distraught comrades...consequently; dozens of comrades are forced to defer their Academic Years, rent houses in the suburbs of the city and endure torturous hours in the cold! A reliable source informed me that a good chunk of these Staff Members, having secured miserable grades, chose to buy decent certificates from poverty-stricken homes and inherited everything including their names! Armed with this grand lie, they were in effect bound to walk tall in job-markets, rise higher in their ranks and become rich overnight. It is feared that over 30 % of UoN Employees are unqualified, undeserving, and worse, have been on payroll illegally! Given the un-attended to loop holes and fissures, illiterate sons and daughters of the mighty have ascended to top ranks in our institution; are the new employers who fancy hiring and firing and rarely tolerate brilliant and hard working staff members! A great deal are indeed cheats who have been robbing us silently, crippling our weak economy, offering us low quality services and denying our bright sons and daughters a chance in life! Armed with a ‘don’t care’ attitude, theirs is to pass some good time in-between rumour mongering, unhealthy talks over a series of unimportant topics, misappropriating funds, tampering with files and documents, forging signatures and sneaking names and details of their relatives and friends in would-be favoured lists of yet another bunch of uneducated buffoons. Once they see a note or some serious coins, they always spring into action and offer you their level best! ©2012 C.C.LEVI

Thursday 18 October 2012

THE TOOTHLESS DOG THAT BARKS THE LOUDEST AND HARDLY BITES!

SONU stands for Student Organization of Nairobi University. It is an organization whose membership comprises all people who enroll as students to study different disciplines within the University of Nairobi. The Student Body has influenced most of the political transitions in the country, enhanced the process of democratization and promoted the welfare of many a student. Over the time, it has itself undergone numerous transitions amidst many a fumble and many a tumble; along the way, it has gained friends, lost others and thus, being able to stand the test of time. Despite being banned severally by Kenyatta’s & Moi’s Dictatorial, plutocratic, degrading, archaic, and tight-fisted regime; its leaders used to actively participate in matters of national concern, essentially expressing student’s position about a range of vital issues for instance the demand of the likes of James Orengo and Wanyiri Kihoro for the truth about the infamous murder of J.M. Kariuki. Most notably is the arrest and inevitable death of the late Mr. Tito Adungosi in connection to the attempted coup of 1982. Consequently, Moi government continued to act tough on student leaders and lecturers because they were suspected to be inciters against his oppressive regime. A group of students led by the then Chairman Mwandawiro Mghanga were expelled from University, arrested and harassed most of the times. In 1987 the then chairman of SONU Mr.Wafula Buke was detained on suspicion that he was spying for the Libyan government which by then was at loggerheads with the Moi regime. Buke was later imprisoned only to be released after introduction of multiparty politics in Kenya. That was then…nowadays, S.O.N.U has effectively been washed down, its leadership crumbled and trampled upon by expensive gifts, generous cash from the student kitty, promises of employment, assurances of scholarships and a horde of other niceties. We are yet to witness another Makau Mutua(1981), Paddy Onyango(1982), Rateng’ Oginga Ogego(1982), Mwendawiro Mganga(1985), Wafula Buke (1987),Miguna Miguna(1987),Kabando wa Kabando(1992) Oburu(1993),Kioko (1998),Ted Munovi(2003),Mwengu Mutuse(2003),Ngaruya K J(2004), and the late GPO Oulu(2004). Unfortunately, what we have, and are sure to have(lest someone rise up and turn the tables upside down once and for all); are a bunch of self-seeking, mean, retrogressive, extortionists, insensitive and careless leaders. Hate or love me, I care the least. The truth is, ‘Comradeship’ is no longer about the suffering student’s rights (say those who lack accommodation or even in dire need of scholarships). Ironically, it has become an avenue to extort cash from wealthy Kenyans, politicians and NGOs (while using the innocent comrades as a mere rubber stamp). S.O.N.U leaders are nowadays celebrities known for their celebrated ‘swagga’ enshrined in a series of partying, a huge following of sexual partners and Satan Knows what else! Surprisingly occasional presence of ‘goons’ imported from ungodly avenues like the ‘China’ & ‘Baghdad’ Commandos, is a permanent feature now during SO.N.U elections…it is time comrades; it is time we say a big no to such derogative gestures and retrogressive sentiments espoused by our leadership. It is time our celebrated Student Body reclaim its lost glory. It is time we put first the student needs then the ‘extra co-curriculum’ activities beyond every successive FURAHI-DAY can follow suit! ©2012 C.C.LEVI

Tuesday 16 October 2012

POLICE ACTED OUT OF PLACE BY BEATING UP M.R.C WOULD-BE PRESIDENT

No matter how grave one's sins are, they are entitled to a procedural, fair and just avenue of seeking justice to the distraught i.e. the victims in question. Even God Himself despite the fact that we cannot do without Him (when He can afford to do without us), gives us a chance to save our skins and in effect, subjects us to humane, fair and just judgments! M.R.C is a near-evil, yes, (a possible venomous thorn in the flesh of our beloved nation) and its consequent acts attest to this. I am not supporting Mr. Omar Mwamnaudzi's acts but it must be remembered that like any other Kenyan, he has his rights! The point is, the police violated his constitutional rights by beating, roughing him up and acting in a manner that subsequently demeaned, degrade and pinned down his ego and manhood. The apparent good spirit of the new constitution espoused by many a government's systems and the respect Kenyans are almost renewing for the long much despised Police Force; is thus consequently jeopardized. We are yet again being reminded of the Nyayo era and the horrific tales of the infamous Nyayo Torture Chambers. Our Police Officers need to uphold the rule of the law, respect the human rights of every Kenyan, and desist from applying excessive force while dealing with law-breakers. Worse, it was inhuman for Mr. Omar Mwamnaudzi to be denied proper medication. That in itself is unconstitutional and unfortunately, flexes the muscles of impunity, disrespect of the rule of law and acts as a recipe for future police run-away brutalities! © 2012 Cheruo Cheptora Levi

Monday 15 October 2012

An Open Letter to all Kenyan Merchants of Impunity

An Open Letter to all Kenyan Merchants of Impunity If justice has to be done, one in a million must rise up and denounce every merchant of impunity with fury and vehemence; without fear and favour. Many a man and a woman have time and again echoed that ‘Kenya will forever remain BIGGER than any mere mortal being nursed on its tender laps’. That the reverse has eternally been the order of the day is no surprise at all! You and I are responsible in a thousand and one ways! Afraid of the mighty and wealthy, cowed and cajoled we’ve been led endlessly to the slaughter like meek sheep. Shy and giggling like amateurish lovers, we always whisper names of shameless Kenyans whose fathers and mothers stole our wealth with gusto (are still stealing even this very minute), killed those who dared to point an accusing finger at them, crippled those who walked shoulders high while denouncing their evil acts, and perhaps even threatened to slaughter your very own beloved grandmother! Kenya is a nation of ten multi-billionaire families and slightly over Thirty Nine Million helpless beggars (Indeed, courtesy of the masses ear-splitting silence and aloofness). It is a country whose systems are enshrined in shrewdness and massive corrupt gestures; a Nation whose respectable leaders lies, kill and torture without a slight blink of an eye. Today, I have chosen to endanger my ‘has-been’ useless life; embrace every unscrupulous reproach, withstand all possible curses and name and shame all those whom I believe rank as the greatest thieves ever in our beloved country. From today henceforth, all those who have been ‘robbing us without violence’ in the name of our Good Lord must be known to the public. To every shrewd clergyman, every tricky bishop and not-so-innocent pastors who have been stealing from our vulnerable mothers and fathers, I have chosen this untimely yet inevitable time to have a date with you! I am not going to spare corrupt heads of learning institutions who have commercialized education and made it very difficult for financially-challenged homes to spring forth a ‘future saviour’. May you all die an equally painful death just like many a dream of young Kenyans that you have been trampling upon mercilessly and eagerly enveloping them in a cloud of the ever seemingly misty tomorrow! To our traffic police and other armed forces whose bad reputation is known to every breathing soul, may your kids and wives suffer the very same pain you always subject to jobless Kenyans who normally strife to make ends meet. May the ‘bad cash’ you normally collect in our impassable, un-attended to roads and business premises eat deep into your plans and ambitions in live. And lastly, to our nurses and doctors whose inhuman and cruel hands are despised and abhorred by every sick Kenyan, may you one day pass through the same hurdles in life and learn hard. May you one unkind day spent torturous hours in an eternalised queue while writhing in anguish and agony. More so, may the cash you normally solicit and cherish more than lives of humans earn you a lot of nothing in live! ©2012 C. C. Levi

THE PLIGHT OF ELGON FORGOTTEN I.D.Ps

THE PLIGHT OF ELGON FORGOTTEN I.D.Ps Of all genuine Internally Displaced Communities, the helpless Sabaots are still trapped, at a loss and without a place to call home. It is alleged that only a handful were fully resettled last year after months of eternal waiting, struggle with empty stomachs, cold nights and a series of traumatizing events in what had been a 'dog's life'. More than 350 families who missed out are yet to taste the 'good waters’. This is in spite of the fact that the government did release One Hundred and Eighty Million Kenyan Shillings last year. Recently the P.M Ordered Lands Minister, Mr.James Orengo to resettle Mau Evictees after intense lobbying and consultations with the distraught leaders from the affected regions. Contrary to Mount Elgon case, the cash was out long time ago meaning their resettlement is long overdue! If the Area M.P cares seriously about the suffering electorate and expects them to send him back to parliament, he ought to do something tangible at the soonest opportune possible. It must be known that this are legitimate I.D.P.s whose tribulations and woes are known here and beyond; their children and grandchildren witnessed horrific murders, maiming and butchering of their beloved ones & they are in effect, in dire need of urgent assistance! ©2012 C. C. Levi

THE QUESTIONABLE CREDIBILITY OF IEBC

THE QUESTIONABLE CREDIBILITY OF IEBC So far so good...it might have been perceived so until dozens of would-be Biometric Registration Voters Clerks started unearthing fissures that has since graduated into cracks in the midst of your celebrated team. Kenyans do have a lot of faith in you, they believe you will dare not go Kivuitu's way and that for once since the infamous Mlolongo Era, we are going to have a free & a fair election. It is however alleged that a number of would-be B.V.R Clerks were intentionally not informed about the exact date when your good office was supposed to interview them. In cases where the lucky few got the wind of the date & time in question, it was too late for them. Concerned parties have raised questions which you must answer satisfactorily: 1) Is there a hidden agenda behind such misinformation? 2) If there are no any hidden ill-motives, could it be that you have in mind a rather better list of your choice of would-be B.V.R Clerks? 3) If the above is indeed a product of mere innuendo, rumour & hearse, will be in order for your noble office to do the distraught would-be B.V.R Clerks some justice by recalling them and setting apart yet another date for interview? We will be waiting for your answers before we start doubting your credibility!!! ©2012 C. C. Levi

AN OPEN LETTER TO ELGON 'MAFIAS' & JEMEDARIs A.K.A 4TH MARCH 2013 POLL ASPIRANTS

AN OPEN LETTER TO ELGON 'MAFIAS' & JEMEDARIs A.K.A 4TH MARCH 2013 POLL ASPIRANTS It is with tears that I am writing; I do not want to remember the horror that engulfed our beautiful motherland the other day. I forgave those of you who actively participated on behalf of my late sisters, brothers, mothers and fathers...they tell me it was too soon for them to leave us; that even though, they are happier wherever they are for reasons only known to them. I have heard from your emissaries that you don like it very much every time we pester you with 'peace-preaching' gestures. Time & again, I have reminded them that unless you begin an 'homestretch' and preach peace back at our villages, I will not vote for you! Unless you mean what you say and boldly denounce your opponents whose utterances are meant to incite, divide and disorganize our community, I will campaign against you by hook or crook! You must also bear in mind that cowed and cajoled we are never going to be. We've known your true colours over the years, studied your moves and weighed you appropriately. As such, this minute, I must offer you my most stupid advice: I see you can make an excellent militia; perhaps an African exceptional Commando! Armed with your careless whispers carrying with it a tinge of blood, better head to Somalia and join Al-Shabab, or still, join our celebrated army and do away with the enemy once and for all! If you are truthful & genuine, immediately after reading this letter, I want you to write a 1000-word essay on peace, harmony, love and stability for our community. I want you moreover to walk the talk as from tomorrow morning; go back home, get the people to sit down, reason together, speak your mind, let them realize the essence of living a descent & a peaceful life & then afterwards, when they are settled and the reality has dawned on them; ask them to vote for you! ©2012 C. C. Levi

FOLLOW YOUR HEART

When you believe in a course whose basis is rooted not in hypocrisy, you've got to follow it for the betterment of humanity...when you will be long gone, many a man and a woman will recall your good deeds, exalt your name and quote your words of encouragement. As such, strife ever to lit a smile in a sad face, add meaning in others lives and live meaningfully to see another day die, and yet another day rise!

WE CAN SAY A BIG NO, CAN WE?

Very few Kenyans can dare stand agaist what is universally accepted as evil and inhuman, courtesy of their adorned love for their esteemed tribal cocoons! Unlike Miguna, they would rather be cowed and cajoled like shy and giggling amateurish lovers...its true, lest we forget, our leaders has hijacked, raped our constitution without even wearing a condom, and insult our every virtue! Elections are suppossed to be held this year August, period! I do hereby call every sensible Kenyan, every good man and woman, to bodly rise up against this 'colonialism' by our own and demand that the constitutioon which everyone fought for, should be respected to the latter!!!!

LETS SHUN HYPOCRISY AND NIB SOCIAL EVILS IN THE BUD WITHOUT FEAR, WITHOUT FAVOR

Very few, if any, are for the course and quest of genuine & universalyl accepted justice...an authentic human rights activists never shudders, never quivers no matter how harsh the consequences might seem! They are hardly after cheap fame-seeking games, financial gains, or a BIG NAME OUT THERE!!!It is heart-breaking that many of our esteemed bright brains have chosen to live a lie a day at a time, especially our campus girls...they say 'great things are done by simple people in the simplest versions, specially so when nobody sees'!That we time and again let a few mislead the masses, squander and waste our sweat and hard-earned self-esteem; is a pity and a retroggressive gesture!

IT IS TIME WE SAY ENOUGH IS ENOUGH!!!

Guys, it is time we separate men from boys, genuine seekers of justice and fairness for all & cheats who lie to us and yet are masters of hatred, tribalism, nepotism and every possible evil you could ever think of. I will never be cowed, let alone with a bullet; I will never waiver neither will I be shaken by mere mortals who are willing to let lose our vulnerable brothers so they can maim, butcher, slaughter and rape their own blood and flesh yet again. I am calling upon every like minded individuals who seek real, long-lasting and beneficial changes for our people in Mount Elgon; to raise up, say enough is enough and denounce every crooked, wicked and shrewd political gestures as we prepare to vote in yet another bunch of thieves, cheats and hypocrites who will (God forbid) care the leas

TOUGH TIMES FOR KENYANS ARE HERE AGAIN: ELECTIONEERING SEOSON AND ITS CRUEL ARCHITECTS

TOUGH TIMES FOR KENYANS ARE HERE AGAIN: ELECTIONEERING SEOSON AND ITS CRUEL ARCHITECTS It is election season once again. A season that Kenyans always embrace with mixed feelings: a time to scramble for cash and gifts from a handful of the greatest thieves of Kenya and the would-be ‘great thieves indeed’. A time much despised and feared by ‘explorers’ who have been accidentally milking a cow they have never herd since independence; a period of imminent disaster and an ever vague tomorrow! Politicians have always known the issues that deeply concern us (including those that divides us), and will be harping on them to touch our hearts, coat our innocence with tribal goggles and woe our votes by hook or crook. Theirs will ever remain “A life time conspiracy to steal, maim, murder, live large and steal again and again!”As such, armed with our stolen money, they are more than ready to play a cruel game we’ve never mastered its unscrupulous rules! One of the long running and perennial concerns of Kenyans is the runaway corruption in our public processes. In 2002 as well as in 2007, corruption had been a key campaign issue. Already it is an issue on the lips of many politicians indicating that the coming general elections will be no different. But considering the lessons of the last 10 years, should we take mere promises and the mere mumbo jumbo to do away with corruption and other massive theft of public coffers for good? What must we do to avoid being taken for a ride by corn artists who are either deeply rooted in grand corruption or are the greatest and loudest defenders of those suspected of looting public coffers? Considering the undisputed fact that our legal system has been unwilling or incapable of delivering justice in matters of corruption for years on end, we cannot just look at convictions or lack of it, as the basis for determining people’s fitness to hold office. In other words an acquittal is not, especially in our circumstances, conclusive proof of innocence. Failure to be prosecuted should also not be the standard for determining who, from an ethical perspective, qualifies to be our leader. As Kenyans who are tired to the bone with hypocritical leadership, we need to turn a leaf in the way we elect our leaders. It is time we take an about-turn and say enough is enough. Indeed, it is time we stand united and shun every tribal hook, every single nepotism shred and set the record straight once and for all. We must examine records of every would-be political master keenly to understand what they will likely become if we give them the mandate to guard our hard-earned wealth. We must base our decisions on people’s record in shunning and fighting corruption. Mere rhetoric is not enough. An eloquent character won’t deliver us from this bondage of slavery unless his or her past is scrutinized, questioned, judged rationally and determined by a fair and just mind. Candidates should articulate what they have done and plan to do to fight corruption. We need to subject this rhetoric to their past record and assess whether it is worth believing or not. ©2012 Cheruo Levi Cheptora

KENYANS LIVING AN EXPENSIVE LIE A DAY AFTER A DAY!

KENYANS LIVING AN EXPENSIVE LIE A DAY AFTER A DAY! Greed, theft, prostitution and corruption... just to mention but a few, is all flesh and blood of ‘living a lie a day at a time’. Under-paid watchmen, peanut-salaried government employees, regular merchants, and ordinary Kenyans do drive limousines, own bungalows and are known to have taken their kids abroad to receive a much better education. Unlike in renowned advanced economies, educational credentials don’t translate to a better tomorrow or a good-paying job someday. The reverse is almost true, and with a heavily loaded god-father behind you, only the sky can be your limit! Kenyans are hardly hard-working, contrary to the much amplified praises. Instead of say securing good grades and completing their educational levels, they would rather buy a decent certificate from a poverty-stricken home and inherit everything including their names! Armed with this grand lie, they are bound to walk tall in job-markets, rise higher in their ranks and become rich overnight. It is feared that over 70 % of Kenyan Government Employees are unqualified, undeserving, and worse, have been on payroll illegally! Given the un-attended to loop holes and fissures, illiterate sons and daughters of the mighty have ascended to top ranks in our institutions; are the new employers who fancy hiring and firing and rarely tolerate brilliant and hard working staff members! Indeed, in some instances, only one out of five present-day Kenyan employees has clean and genuine papers! The rest are cheats who have been robbing us silently, crippling our weak economy, offering us low quality services and denying our bright sons and daughters a chance in life! Kenya is a nation whose citizens has employed crooked means of survival, lives in the expense of others, cares the least about humanity and is ever more than willing to do anything to plunge every vulnerable life into a pitch-dark abyss! It is a lovely den of hungry wolves whose ugly claws often extend a cold handshake to every beggar in the next turn. In every public office, we the beggars must pay a mandatory illegal fee of at least a hundred Kenyan shillings to get our documents signed or rubber-stamped by an administrator. Chiefs, District Officers, District Commissioners, Provincial Commissioners, C.E.Os, Clerks e.t.c. normally solicit bribe and in most cases, demand a huge chunk of our hard-earned cash or else deny us their services for good. The most disappointing thing is the fact that in every Kenyan public office and/ or institution, there are banners inscribed in them the words “THIS IS A CORRUPT FREE ZONE”, “YOU ARE NOW ENTERING A CORRUPT FREE AREA” or still, “CORRUPTION IS NOT PRACTISED HERE!”. As if they are afraid of their ill-intentions, not a single mortal dares to look at such banners while attending to your needs. Armed with a ‘don’t care’ attitude, theirs is to pass some good time in-between rumour mongering, unhealthy talks over a series of unimportant topics, misappropriating funds, tampering with files and documents, forging signatures and sneaking names and details of their relatives and friends in would-be favoured lists of yet another bunch of uneducated buffoons. Once they see a note or some serious coins, they always spring into action and offer you their level best! ©2012 Cheruo Levi Cheptora

A LOST, FORGOTTEN & YET UNCARING GENERATION

A LOST, FORGOTTEN & YET UNCARING GENERATION Immediately after joining the University of Nairobi (long known for its notorious students and occasional stone-throwing incidents), my beloved papa, the late David Naibei Silas Cheruo, used to remind me of their old good days when he was a student of Animal Health in Kabete in late 70s and early 80s. Then, university students were considered to be the best brains in the society, thus the source of comfort in bleak days. Many a man and a woman in campus had known their country to be BIGGER than any one; be it shrewd politicians, corrupt government officials or even the emissaries of the then dictatorial regime. He used to lament about my generation whose girls show off a lot of their flesh with gusto, automatically become sex addicts as soon as their mangoes starts fighting with their blouses and are more than willing to suffer for years on end in the expense of a few years that demands seriousness and in effect, can lead to a healthier, merrier and a much happier life someday. More so, young men like me are into drugs, partying, and sexual affairs and have since perfected and crafted a life coated with a lie after a lie. It’s been over sixteen months since he passed away now, and he was right anyway…almost four years now in the University of Nairobi, my heart is echoing his cry for what has become a forgotten, lost yet uncaring generation. Today, sexually transmitted grades and degrees are being awarded to dozens of insensitive, yet perfect brains of the society indeed! Lecturers have been known to blackmail us and exploit our vulnerability, yet we hardly come out strongly and say ENOUGH IS ENOUGH! Many a night and many a day, I have witnessed a fleet of expensive vehicles owned by C.E.Os, M.Ps, top government officials and the lucky few Kenyans whose problem has never been cash heading to Female Hostels. In exchange of a fat wand of notes, they are sure to trade-flesh, know happiness and experience a new sphere of ‘love’ denied by their wives back in their dark dungeons. It is heartbreaking to note that such has over the time graduated into the rule rather than the exception. Afraid of the mighty and wealthy, cowed and cajoled we’ve been led endlessly to the slaughter like meek sheep. We’ve seemingly succumbed to a cruel fate so soon and even though we’ve numerous avenues out, we are going to dare not lift a finger in protest! We have shamelessly chosen to live a lie a day at a time, suffer in silence then inevitably, endure a slow, gradual and equally untimely death! The cream of the society is nowadays common in our roads – going on rampage, injuring motorists and burning vehicles. I am tempted to wonder if learning institutions, essentially intended to tame, nature and produce valuable Kenyans someday; are instead creating future monsters that will rather destroy completely, other than construct peacefully. Unlike in the old good days of my late papa, who used to agitate for positive change in governance, nowadays, shy and giggling like amateurish lovers, we always whisper names of shameless Kenyans whose fathers and mothers stole our wealth with such an awesome generosity (are still stealing even this very minute), killed those who dared to point an accusing finger at them, crippled those who walked shoulders high while denouncing their evil acts. There was hardly hooliganism .They ensured that the government served the interests of the Kenyans. Today, smoking, gambling and drinking is the order of the day in the once respected institutions of higher learning. Ironically, we will undoubtedly remain tight lipped as old boys mess up with our bright future and misgovern our parents’ blood and sweat. Slowly, a conspiracy of silence is eroding the “comrade power” and in effect, we will ever remain a lost, forgotten yet uncaring generation for many years to come lest we make an about-turn and set the record straight once and for all! By ©Cheruo Levi Cheptora

GOVERNMENT’S EXAGGERATED AMBITIONS HURTING MANY A SCHOLAR

GOVERNMENT’S EXAGGERATED AMBITIONS HURTING MANY A SCHOLAR Kabianga Farmers Training Centre became Kabianga Campus of Moi University in May 2007. In May, 2009, the University Campus was elevated to a University College. Kabianga University College joins the list of the recently established University Colleges and Campuses with a view of creating more learning opportunities .Currently the University College has over 3000 students. Initially, everybody considered it an exceptional move by the government; a timely solution to the ever increasing demand for higher education in our country and perhaps, a landmark credential in our esteemed education system. With time, though, the cracks have gradually graduated into fissures in what now appears to have been a hurriedly arranged ‘marriage’. It is evident that the Government had done a great deal of nothing as far as infrastructure expansion and improvement is concerned. Worse, the story is the same in almost all the other College Universities. Consequently, thousands of students are forced to endure an unbearable learning environment in such institutions. In Kabianga for instance, the messes are in a total mess, the main library is almost an archive rich with a scanty number of learning materials and, everyday experience is a traumatizing story for every student. Moreover, six students are forced to share a single room, the water runs hardly up to 8 AM due to the overwhelming number of students, the roads are not tarmac ked (meaning when it rains, one has to wear Gumboots), pavements are ironically absent, an automatic generator is as well absent, the main computer laboratory has close to ten desk top computers...the list is endless! I honestly call upon the government to think seriously about improving things in these higher learning institutions. It is in effect an awesome idea, yes, very timely indeed, yet doomed to stumble and fumble alike unless something tangible is done at the soonest opportune possible! ©2012 Cheruo .C. Levi

REVISITING THE HORRORS OF SABAOT LAND DEFENCE MILITIA IN MOUNT ELGON, KENYA

REVISITING THE HORRORS OF SABAOT LAND DEFENCE MILITIA IN MOUNT ELGON, KENYA "…Komon's family having succumbed to a major loss, produced a sizeable number of would- be militia men. Idle youths joined hands with the groups. Soon, they headed deep in the forest. Former GSU personnel, David Sigei did train the soldiers. Wycliffe Komon Matakwei was his right hand man. All were being inspired by the illusion that they will be rewarded by huge plots of land after the ensuing battle. For such an illusion to be a reality, they needed to wipe out the entire Ndorobo sub tribe, destroy their properties and own their animals as well! In late 2005, a chilling order from a commandant of newly formed Sabaot Land Defense Force began to be effected. School going boys and girls were rounded in the evening and taken for further instructions. Had the enemy not plotted a scheme to do away with them all? They had nowhere to go – yet, the guns and machetes lay waiting for them on the other side. Some fled. They were traced and brutally murdered at the hands of the fierce force. More willing men joined the force. Dozens left their families to fight for the land. Deep in the forest, the force trained in military warfare. Military hardware exchanged hands, others crossed over from the loose Uganda – Kenya border. Under the dreadful Wycliffe Matakwei, the Sabaot Land Defense Force grew beyond control. David Sigei offered his best training. Elias Bera oversaw financial matters, and soon, sponsors were in their hundreds. Civil servants were forced to part with something or else face the music. From Chebwek, Cheptais to Suam in Endebes- the force was now felt like a live wire! Alive and walking vibrantly. Camps were established with complete authorities. An offensive was then immediately launched. By mid 2006, the vigor of the force had seen hundreds of lives lost and properties worth millions of shillings, completely destroyed! Houses were torched, Tororo alongside Kopsiro, wantonly destroyed. The slopes witnessed uncountable beheadings and untold sufferings. Even animals were not spared. Mongrels were beheaded or their limbs amputated mercilessly! The director of the horror movie heaved with ecstasy at the sight, and ordered even more bloodshed! There was no way to survive… gunshots were heard all over. Premises were reduced to mere ashes. Thousands ran for dear lives. Raiders from both camps would take off with what their might could allow them to carry, rape helpless elderly women, and took away their daughters and granddaughters. Whatever happened to them, no one will ever get to know! Vigorous fields that were once the cradle of farming, slowly turned idle. Established centers were converted into battle fields. Schools were hideouts and sites for massive damage and loss of both lives and properties. Beyond the impenetrable forest yonder, the enemy kept planning how best to avenge. The now cruel Sabaot Land Defense Force militia men took more lives. Finally, their date with ill timed fate had dawn, and it was the best opportunity to settle their scores…and more and more bloodshed was the way forward! Apparently, it was the most suitable means of healing their eternal wound…a wound that had ever seen years of bleeding. Matakwei’s boys will fight to death. More and more heeded his call. More were given blessings by Mzee Songoiywo; more took the oath with such great enthusiasm. And the killings continued. The horror movie was there to stay indeed!" That was years ago; the memories are still vivid, the agony much alive and the scars visible in many a face. Many then could eat when something solid was availed, and sleep hungry when there was none. Dozens of families were uprooted from their homes and were headed to safer zones where scores of others were arriving every night, in fear of fresh attacks. There was no place to call home anymore. Across the awesome land, beyond the spell binding and beautiful highlands; rapes, mutilations and communal violence gripped the country with such awesome might. Every male wore a solemn face in the slopes. Every female was worried- sure to lose their beloved anytime. One could read the signs in their foreheads. It was there all the time. Nobody was permitted to mourn their loved ones. Corpses were hurriedly thrown into three feet holes and a few munches of soil thrown inside. Others were left in the vandalized houses where stray dogs soon found comfort! You could wish it was not real- yet it was. It was happening every hour, every minute and in every corner of the slopes. The once fertile plots lay idle. Without food, the entire community will be a forgotten thing indeed! We are much wiser now; we’ve seen the effect, felt the consequences and realized it was never worth it from the beginning. We have learnt the hard way and never again are we going to tread in that coarse path; never again are we going to meekly heed the call of the cheats, evil and shrewd politicians so we can maim, kill & butcher our very own mothers, fathers, sisters and brothers. We must now embrace brotherhood, peace, love and unity…we must walk the talk and preach good-will! It is either today or never again! Join me and let us save innocent lives at stake! © 2012 Cheruo Levi Cheptora

The Bitter Pills

Songs from my Soul

https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/245107