Pigs will fly…

Africa is indeed growing into its own. With the resignation of the Tanzanian Prime Minister comes the dawning of yet another new realization: Africa can indeed face its own demons and deal with them. These demons are more often than not, the ogre of corruption and civil war.

I laud the PM for his bold yet difficult move. It must have been very emotional for Mr. Lowassa to tender that resignation leter to his boss, the President of Tanzania, who also happens to be a close ally. Several other Ministers, linked to the scandal which involved a massive energy deal with a US company, have also followed suit.

I dare say that pigs will fly sooner than a Kenyan Minister will dare make a similar move. Of course, we cant forget the instance when the former Internal Security, Justice and Finance Ministers did the same, some time back. But after how much clamouring and outcry did the “Honourable Waheshimiwa” do the necessary?

Indeed, Kenya has had its fair share of corruption scandals – some still too fresh to wish away – and no one has taken the daunting task of stepping aside to pave way for investigations.

Only recently, did the ECK chair comment callously that he will not resign, despite the clearly offhanded manner with which he oversaw the elections and the result as we can all recall was nothing short of disastrous.

Thousands have been displaced, hundreds killed and property worth millions of shillings destroyed. Not forgetting our dear economy which is literally buckling at the knees.

Oh dear, dear! Will Kenyan MPs, Ministers and other leaders who wield immense clout over our institutions ever borrow a leaf from our Tanzanian counterparts? Like I said, pigs will fly…