In a politically charged atmosphere, reminiscent of the theatre of Greek tragedies, the Brigadier John Kiboko funeral in Nyandarua recently became a battleground for Kenyan politics. The protagonists? Raila Odinga, an iconic figure on the political scene, and Rigathi Gachagua, the shoot from the mouth and think later Deputy President. But, one might ask, what precipitated this clash? What were the underlying tensions that boiled over into this public spectacle? The whole drama started when Raila pointed out that the UDA government was not serious about the welfare of former freedom fighters. Gachagua, when it was his turn to speak, spoke like he had been stung. But what were the real issues here that touch not only on the Mau mau but on the very fate of long suffering Kenyans today? The Heart of the Matter At the core of this clash lies a profound disagreement over the role of government in the welfare of the citizens, symbolised by the Mau Mau freedom fighters....
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