Lawyer PLO Lumumba has issued a stark warning about the state of Kenya’s democracy, highlighting alarming trends that threaten the nation’s stability.
Speaking on Radio Generation’s People’s Breakfast Show, Lumumba condemned politicians who openly admit plans to rig votes, urging Kenyans to wake up and actively safeguard their democratic rights.
Drawing parallels with conflict zones such as Sudan, Darfur, and eastern Congo, Lumumba cautioned that voter complacency could push Kenya towards similar unrest.
He used the Swahili proverb “cha mwenzako kikinyolewa”, as a call to action urging people to prepare for potential consequences, to illustrate the dangers of ignoring political manipulation until it directly affects one’s own community.
Lumumba stressed that although dissatisfied voters make up a minority, their silence weakens the country’s ability to hold leaders accountable.
The lawyer further criticized Kenya’s weakened state institutions, saying all arms of government have been emasculated. He was particularly scathing about the judiciary, which he described as compromised by corruption, ethnic favoritism, and flawed appointment processes.
According to Lumumba, these factors have severely undermined the courts’ independence and credibility.
“The judiciary is now litigating in its own courts, yet its rulings are often ignored,” Lumumba said, condemning judicial officers who misuse their positions for personal benefit. He argued that these issues have led to a justice system in desperate need of overhaul.
Lumumba’s critique highlights the broader challenges facing Kenya’s governance, where entrenched corruption and tribalism continue to stifle progress.
His message is clear: without voter vigilance and meaningful reform, Kenya risks further erosion of its democratic institutions and rule of law.
As Kenya prepares for future elections, Lumumba’s call serves as a reminder that political awareness and institutional integrity are crucial to safeguarding the country’s democratic future.
