Kenya Elections

Now is a scary time for Kenya. Memories of the post-election violence in 2007 are at the forefront of everyone’s minds. Last time a president was elected, the country experienced a turbulent time where over 1000 people were killed. Kenya is very country divided among tribal lines which causes many problems. Everyone wants their tribe in power because they will benefit. They will get jobs, land, food… many services offered by the government will go most towards the tribe that is in power. They all say they are fair and won’t discriminate, but it doesn’t work out that way. When someone applies for a job, the employer may make their decision based on the tribe they are in. A person’s name often reveals their tribe making it easy for discrimination to occur.

In 2007, most Kenyans believed Raila Odinga, a Luo, would win the election. When the results were announced, Mwai Kibaki, a Kikuyu, was declared the winner. Rumors flew of a rigged election and the tribes begin to fight. Kisumu, our home, is known to be Luo land and many business owned by Kikuyus were burned down. In another town, 40 Lhuya women and children were locked in a church and burned. It was mayhem. It took months for things to settle down. Four political leaders were indicted by the ICC for crimes against humanity for their alleged rolls in the violence. Two of those four are running together for president and vice president in this election. Their trial is slated to occur later this year and many people think they shouldn’t be allowed to run.

The election is on Monday, March 4th. We are praying for peace. No matter who wins, people will be upset, but we hope violence won’t break out. Due to the possibility of violence, George will be here in Tanzania, although he cares very much about politics and wants to vote. We’ll be keeping up with the news on line and praying Kenya doesn’t start fighting again.

Please pray with us.