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10/22/2024 0 Comments

"Divide and Rule": Propaganda, Divisive Politics, and the Principle of Diversion in Kenyan Politics

Written by Hussein Waiyaki
Edited and Reviewed by Tex Wambui

In the political landscape of Kenya, events appear to be unfolding rapidly: the contentious rise to power of the current government in 2022, the opposition questioning the government's credibility, and recent developments such as the disputed finance bill, the rise of the Gen Z movement, the increase in civic education nationwide led by activist Morara Kebaso, the dissolution of the cabinet, the opposition's collaboration with the government, the controversial Adani-JKIA deal, and most recently, the impeachment motion against Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.

The critical question is whether these occurrences are mere coincidences. In my considered opinion, most of what is transpiring is not by chance. It is a meticulously designed game that engages the ruled class while the ruling class maintains control and continues to exploit them further.

Robert Greene, in his 48 Laws of Power, seems to have revealed the darker aspects of human nature. The ideal Kenyan politician is a quintessential student of Robert Greene, which forms the basis of my argument in this article. Greene explains how individuals can increase their influence by engaging the emotions of the surrounding masses. This perfectly mirrors the strategies employed by Kenyan politicians to gain and maintain power for extended periods. "The average man is daft," said a good friend of mine, a statement I have come to fully agree with whenever I consider Kenyan politics.

While mastering the 48 Laws of Power, the Kenyan elite and ruling class seem to exploit three key principles of power, which allow them to maintain their dominance while inciting discord among lower-class citizens. This infighting ultimately aids in their continued rule and staves off any potential revolution. The three major principles the government employs to keep citizens divided are divide-and-rule, diversion, and the extensive use of propaganda.
The primary reason it has been extremely challenging—almost impossible—for citizens to successfully challenge the government is its ability to deploy these tactics at will. The only way for people to win this war is through complete unity; without it, the government will continue to thrive while the oppressed class remains stuck in its grip, resulting in little or no change.
Divide and Rule

The rise of the Gen Z movement as a revolutionary force poses a significant threat to the ruling class. With its immense potential, the movement could secure over 15 million votes in a single election—more than enough for a presidential victory. However, the government is well aware of this, and as Greene states in his 15th law, "Crush your enemy totally," the ruling class must consistently find ways to address any emerging threats that could surpass them.

The government will encourage or even promote any divisions that appear to disenfranchise the Gen Z movement, thereby weakening its strength. Consider the concept of individuals establishing their own political parties or registering movements. While it may seem like a positive step to the average person, it is, in fact, a dangerous concept. To some extent, the government sponsors various political parties to prevent unity among them. In doing so, it prospers from the division among citizens and will resort to any unscrupulous tactic to ensure that the populace remains fragmented.

Diversion
Another strategy employed by the elite class is the principle of diversion. Here, the government pushes initiatives that divert citizens' attention away from critical issues. For instance, many witnessed the arrest of activist Morara Kebaso on the same day the court ruled on the SHIF/SHA issue. He was released just a day later, prompting the question: why was he arrested that day in particular? While the average person might view this as a simple arrest, it was clearly a means of diverting attention.

Or consider the introduction of the Deputy President’s impeachment motion amidst the Adani deal controversies. These theatrics are deliberately employed to distract dissatisfied Kenyans from demanding real change, steering their focus toward irrelevant issues that do not lead to progress.
I've often tried to convince myself that the Deputy President’s impeachment doesn't fall into this category, but I keep asking, "What if it’s just a plan to divert people from more important matters?" Imagine the President and his Deputy having regular phone calls, laughing about how well the theatrics have worked. I don’t think it is the case, but I can’t entirely convince myself that it isn’t. If the Deputy President does manage to escape impeachment, then my 'what if' question might have a fitting answer.

Propaganda
The ruling class also employs propaganda and misinformation as tools of control. You will often hear government-backed headlines and hashtags aimed at discrediting movements that oppose them. A perfect example is the government's attempt to label Morara Kebaso a con artist, whose sole business is scamming people out of their money. These propaganda tactics are highly effective, with a vast majority of people believing them without question.
Co-optation of the Opposition
One more strategy worth mentioning is the government’s tactic of assigning key portfolios to the opposition, effectively neutralizing their dissent. By nominating members of the opposition to ministerial positions, the government alleviates the frustrations of discontented citizens. This sudden cooperation between the opposition and the government has led to an abrupt halt in the opposition’s critical stance. Previously dynamic opposition leaders have become hesitant, often aligning themselves with the government’s agenda after securing these positions. A significant shift has been noted in regions that once clamored for change, but now view the government more favorably.

The path to real change in Kenya lies in unity. Without it, the ruling class will continue using division, diversion, and propaganda to maintain control and mislead the public. Citizens must recognize these tactics for what they are and refuse to be drawn into infighting that benefits only the powerful. Only through unity can the people reclaim their power and bring about meaningful, lasting change.

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10/9/2024 0 Comments

Kenya’s Nuclear Dream: A Future of Promise and the Shadow of Governance

Written by: Tex Wambui
Kenya is a country of bold ambitions, a place where history and the promise of the future often collide in fascinating ways. From the coastal city of Mombasa, where ancient traders once docked their ships, to the bustling, tech-driven streets of Nairobi, Kenya has long been a land of innovation, resilience, and potential. Now, as the country sets its sights on the next chapter of its development, it’s embarking on one of the most ambitious ventures in its history: nuclear energy.

Imagine this: by 2027, Kenya begins construction on its first nuclear power plant, a project that could fundamentally reshape the country’s energy landscape. By 2034, that plant is expected to start generating 1,000 megawatts of power, enough to light homes, power industries, and fuel Kenya’s economic growth for decades to come (1). For a nation that has relied heavily on geothermal and hydroelectric power—sources that are subject to the whims of nature—nuclear energy represents stability, scalability, and a future less vulnerable to the unpredictability of droughts or limited natural resources.

At the 68th session of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) General Conference, Kenya’s leadership made its vision clear. Nuclear energy wasn’t just about meeting the country’s growing energy needs; it was a bold step toward becoming a regional industrial hub, a player on the global stage, and a nation that could finally achieve long-term energy security. Kenya’s Prime Cabinet Secretary, Musalia Mudavadi, emphasized that nuclear power would be more than just an energy solution—it would drive advances in healthcare, agriculture, and climate resilience (2). It’s a vision full of promise, one that fits with Kenya’s history of innovation and progress.

But even as this exciting future comes into focus, the road ahead is far from smooth. Kenya’s ambition for nuclear power raises critical questions about governance, transparency, and the country’s ability to manage such a complex and high-stakes project. Kenya has always had big dreams, and many of those dreams have been realized. But its history, particularly when it comes to large infrastructure projects, has also been marked by challenges—especially in the form of corruption.

Corruption in Kenya is not a new story. Over the years, countless infrastructure projects have been mired in scandals, with funds disappearing into the pockets of a few while projects either stall or collapse altogether. The infamous dam construction scandals, where billions of shillings were siphoned off and little progress was made, are still fresh in the minds of many Kenyans (3). The fear now is that the nuclear project, with its massive $4 billion price tag, could become another opportunity for corruption to flourish (4).

Nuclear power is different from other infrastructure projects in one critical way: it demands the highest levels of safety, oversight, and technical expertise. A mismanaged road project might lead to delays or increased costs, but a mismanaged nuclear project could have far graver consequences. With Kenya’s long history of corruption in government, there is a real concern about whether the country’s institutions are robust enough to handle a project of this scale. The Kenya Nuclear Regulatory Authority (KNRA) has been working to establish a strong regulatory framework, and partnerships with international players like the United States, Russia, and China are expected to provide much-needed expertise and support (5). But the challenge will be ensuring that these efforts are backed by a political commitment to transparency and good governance.

As Kenya moves forward with its nuclear ambitions, there is another troubling question looming in the background: Why, in the midst of such grand plans, is President William Ruto urging Kenya’s youth to emigrate in search of better opportunities abroad? This call for emigration comes at a time when the country is preparing to invest billions in infrastructure, energy, and development. Kenya’s youth are the future—they are the ones who will inherit this nuclear plant and the industries it will power. Why, then, are they being encouraged to leave?

Some view this as a pragmatic solution to Kenya’s high levels of unemployment and underemployment. It’s no secret that many young Kenyans struggle to find jobs that match their qualifications, and the allure of work abroad can be tempting (6). But others see it as a troubling signal—one that suggests that Kenya’s leadership may not fully believe in its ability to provide enough opportunities at home. If Kenya is on the brink of such transformative growth, shouldn’t the government be doing everything in its power to keep its best and brightest within the country?

Critics argue that this encouragement of emigration could be viewed as a quiet form of corruption, not in the financial sense, but in the sense that it reflects a failure of leadership. The country’s youth should be at the center of its development plans, not seen as an export. And if the government can’t provide opportunities for its young people, even as it invests billions in nuclear energy and other infrastructure projects, what does that say about Kenya’s long-term strategy for development?

Despite these concerns, Kenya’s nuclear energy project holds incredible promise. If managed correctly, it could be the key to unlocking a future of prosperity and stability. It could give Kenya the reliable, large-scale energy it needs to fuel its industries, expand its economy, and improve the lives of its people. But this future will only be realized if the government is willing to confront the challenges that have plagued so many projects in the past.

Kenya’s leadership has a responsibility not just to build a nuclear power plant but to build trust. They must show the country—and the world—that this project will be managed with transparency, integrity, and a commitment to the public good. Independent oversight, public participation, and clear accountability measures will be crucial to ensuring that the nuclear project delivers on its promises.

In the end, Kenya’s nuclear ambitions are not just about energy; they are about the future of a nation. A future where Kenya’s young people stay and build, where corruption no longer holds back progress, and where the country’s bold dreams are realized not just in grand speeches but in the everyday lives of its citizens. It’s a future full of promise, but it’s also one that requires careful navigation through the complex realities of governance and leadership. Kenya has risen to challenges before—now, it must rise again to ensure that its nuclear dream becomes a reality that benefits all Kenyans.
References

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10/5/2024 0 Comments

Why Derrick Rose Deserves a Spot in the NBA Hall of Fame: A Legacy of Brilliance and Resilience

Written by: Tex Wambui

After hearing countless talks and debates on podcasts, ESPN, and in conversations with friends following Derrick Rose’s announcement of his retirement, I felt compelled to dive deeper into his legacy and the argument for his spot in the NBA Hall of Fame. His career is one of the most fascinating stories in basketball—marked by incredible highs and heartbreaking lows. But when you examine his impact on the game, his MVP season, and his cultural significance, it becomes clear that Derrick Rose's place in Springfield should be all but guaranteed.

Derrick Rose’s journey is one of brilliance, resilience, and influence, both on and off the court. When you take a closer look at his story and what he’s done for the game, it’s evident that Rose deserves to be enshrined in the NBA Hall of Fame.

The most undeniable piece of evidence in Rose’s favor: he is the youngest MVP in NBA history.

In 2011, at just 22 years old, Derrick Rose stood atop the league as the most valuable player, an achievement that not only defined his career but also set him apart in NBA history. That season, Rose averaged 25.0 points, 7.7 assists, 4.1 rebounds, and 1.0 steals per game, while shooting 44.5% from the field and 33.2% from three. He led the Chicago Bulls to a league-best 62-20 record. His quickness, athleticism, and ability to dominate games with his relentless drives to the basket were unparalleled. Rose wasn’t just another great player; he was redefining what a point guard could be.

This MVP award isn’t just a footnote in Rose’s career—it’s a defining moment that places him in elite company. Think about it: how many Hall of Famers can say they were the youngest MVP ever? That alone sets Rose apart. More importantly, his MVP season was about more than individual accolades. It was a season where Rose lifted an entire franchise. The Bulls, post-Michael Jordan, were struggling to find relevance. Rose gave Chicago hope again, becoming the face of the franchise and carrying them deep into the playoffs. He led the Bulls to the Eastern Conference Finals, a level of success they hadn’t seen since the Jordan era.

Yet, it’s Rose’s resilience that truly defines him. After his devastating ACL injury in 2012, the narrative around Rose shifted from dominance to survival. His career, as we all know, was altered. Injuries robbed him of his prime. But to stop the story there would be missing the essence of who Derrick Rose is. What makes Rose’s case for the Hall of Fame so compelling is not just what he did before the injury—it’s how he fought back after it.

Despite facing one of the most debilitating injuries in sports, Rose didn’t fade away. He didn’t let the injury define him. Instead, he reinvented himself, finding new roles on teams like the Minnesota Timberwolves and New York Knicks. His incredible 50-point game in 2018 with the Timberwolves was more than just a great performance. It was an emotional reminder of what made Rose special in the first place—his heart, passion, and undeniable talent. Even in the face of adversity, Rose continued to contribute in the NBA. That performance reminded the world that while injuries may have slowed him, they could never truly stop him.

Over the course of his 15-season career, Rose has played 723 games and averaged 17.4 points, 5.2 assists, and 3.2 rebounds per game, shooting 45.6% from the field and 31.6% from three. But it’s in the playoffs, where stars are truly measured, that Rose continued to shine. In 52 playoff games, Rose has averaged 21.9 points, 6.3 assists, and 4.3 rebounds per game. His playoff stats demonstrate that when the stakes were highest, Rose elevated his game. These numbers aren’t just a testament to his early brilliance; they also show his consistency, even after suffering numerous setbacks.

When we look at other Hall of Fame players, the criteria becomes clearer. Impact, not just longevity, is what truly matters. Players like Maurice Cheeks, Dikembe Mutombo, and Chris Mullin were inducted into the Hall of Fame without MVPs or scoring accolades. Yet, their influence on the game—through leadership, defense, or cultural significance—was undeniable.

Rose, while known for his scoring, was also a brilliant playmaker. During his MVP season, he averaged over 7 assists per game, showcasing his ability to elevate his teammates. But what truly sets Rose apart, much like Mutombo or Cheeks, is the way he influenced an entire generation of basketball players. Rose became the face of Chicago basketball after Michael Jordan, and more importantly, he became a cultural icon who inspired countless young players to embrace their uniqueness and fight through adversity.

Derrick Rose’s highlights deserve a special mention. When you think of Derrick Rose, it’s impossible not to recall the jaw-dropping plays that made you question the laws of physics. Rose’s highlights aren’t just memorable—they are legendary. His combination of explosiveness, creativity, and fearlessness redefined the point guard position. Whether it was crossing over defenders, driving coast-to-coast, or throwing down thunderous dunks over much bigger opponents, Rose’s highlight reel is something every basketball fan cherishes.

From his iconic one-handed dunk over Goran Dragic to his buzzer-beating game-winner in the playoffs against the Cleveland Cavaliers, Rose’s highlights weren’t just about points. They were moments that electrified arenas, moments that made fans leap out of their seats, moments that will live on forever in NBA history. Watching Derrick Rose in his prime was an experience, and his highlights have a lasting emotional impact on anyone who witnessed them.
Highlight reels matter. They define eras. Derrick Rose's ability to create unforgettable, emotional moments on the court should be a cornerstone of his Hall of Fame candidacy. Fans live for those moments, and Rose delivered them time and time again.

It’s important to remember that the Hall of Fame isn’t just about accumulating championships or longevity. It’s about leaving a mark on the game. Derrick Rose left his mark in a way few players have. His story is about more than basketball—it’s about overcoming adversity, inspiring a generation, and creating timeless memories.
Rose influenced an entire era of point guards, from Russell Westbrook to Ja Morant, both of whom have publicly acknowledged Rose’s impact on their careers. His cultural influence is undeniable, and that’s a key part of what makes his Hall of Fame case so strong. He was more than just a player; he was a symbol of what is possible when you combine talent with work ethic and a refusal to give up.

Derrick Rose is more than just an MVP. He is a symbol of brilliance, resilience, and inspiration. At his peak, Rose was one of the best players the NBA has ever seen, and his place in history is undeniable. While he may not have the championships or the longevity of some other Hall of Famers, Rose’s impact, cultural significance, and peak performance easily justify his place in Springfield.

For those who make the Hall of Fame selections, don’t even question whether Derrick Rose belongs—this decision should be straightforward. The NBA Hall of Fame should be about players who left a lasting impression on the game, and Derrick Rose has done that and more. His story is one of hope, heartbreak, and ultimately, redemption—and that’s why Derrick Rose deserves a place in the NBA Hall of Fame.

What do you think? Does Derrick Rose belong in the Hall of Fame? Let me know your thoughts in the comments.
If you agree with this take, hit the share button and spread the word!
#NBA #DerrickRose #HallOfFame #Basketball #YoungestMVP #Resilience #Inspiration #SportsLeadership #BasketballCulture

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10/1/2024 0 Comments

Rethinking Growth: It’s About More Than GDP and Dollars

Written by: Tex Wambui
When we think about a country’s success, the first thing that comes to mind is probably its GDP—the total value of everything it produces. For decades, that’s how we’ve measured progress, but is that really telling us the whole story?
Let’s face it, life is more than just numbers. What good is economic growth if people are unhappy, unhealthy, or if the environment is being destroyed in the process? This is where holistic growth comes in—a concept that’s starting to take center stage as we realize there’s much more to progress than just financial metrics.
Take Bhutan, for example. Instead of GDP, they’ve got a different approach: Gross National Happiness (GNH). It sounds almost too simple, but Bhutan looks at things like emotional well-being, cultural preservation, and environmental health as signs of progress. Similarly, New Zealand has adopted a “Well-being Budget.” Their government now evaluates policies based on how they impact quality of life—whether that’s reducing child poverty, improving mental health, or tackling environmental issues.
These examples show that countries can thrive when they think about growth more holistically. It’s about looking at the bigger picture, beyond just economics, and asking: Are we truly improving people’s lives?
Now, let’s talk about technology, particularly AI. Artificial Intelligence is already transforming industries like healthcare and education in ways that align with this broader vision of growth. In healthcare, AI-powered tools are making earlier disease detection possible, which can save lives and reduce long-term healthcare costs. In education, AI is helping create personalized learning experiences for students, focusing not just on academic skills but also fostering creativity and emotional intelligence.
But there’s a flip side: AI also poses risks, like job displacement and privacy concerns. If we’re going to let technology be a part of this holistic growth, we need to manage these risks responsibly. We have to ensure that the benefits of AI are shared broadly and that no one gets left behind as industries evolve.
All of this is what I dig into in my latest SITTY Podcast episode. I explore how we can rethink growth in a way that values individual well-being, societal equity, and environmental sustainability—without sacrificing economic progress. It’s about recognizing that everything is interconnected, and our success depends on balancing these priorities.
🎧 Want to dive deeper? Check out the full podcast episode here: [Podcast Link] 💡 I’d love to hear your thoughts! Join the conversation with #SITTYPodcastHolisticGrowth and let’s talk about how we can all contribute to this shift.
In the end, real progress isn’t just about numbers on a spreadsheet—it’s about how people feel, how societies function, and how the planet thrives.

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We are Tex Wambui and Hussein Waiyaki—two individuals passionate about exploring life, society, and the human experience. Through our writings, we reflect on the challenges, hopes, and truths that shape our world. Whether it’s dissecting societal issues, discussing energy, or sharing thoughts on hope and resilience, we aim to inspire, challenge, and provoke meaningful thought. These are words that matter—straight from us to you.

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"Divide and Rule": Propaganda, Divisive Politics, and the Principle of Diversion in Kenyan Politics

Kenya’s Nuclear Dream: A Future of Promise and the Shadow of Governance

Why Derrick Rose Deserves a Spot in the NBA Hall of Fame: A Legacy of Brilliance and Resilience

Rethinking Growth: It’s About More Than GDP and Dollars

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