Page 18 - Msingi Afrika Magazine Issue 35

C omm unit y
Community
the branches of trees, they will never alter
a determined man’s convictions. In Kenya,
however, the political atmosphere can
belittle, undermine, and even bring about the
downfall of individuals with alarming ease,
striking fear into the hearts of many.
At political gatherings, men are typically
the most prevalent attendees, with women
and children—especially those who have
left school due to various psychosocial,
economic, and political challenges—making
up the next largest group. This demographic
imbalance highlights how deeply entrenched
gender norms shape participation in civic
life.
The male dominance in elective offices
underscores a troubling reality: many men
in the electorate remain passive spectators to
the social injustices unfolding around them.
This political complacency, often bolstered
by flattery and self-interest, perpetuates
systemic injustices. The narratives branded
as public agendas by political parties largely
serve to reinforce traditional masculinity,
while subtle practices of emasculation
become ingrained as prevailing norms. These
dynamics shape party politics and mould the
fabric of national governance, often at the
expense of equity and justice.
When a politician faces scrutiny from a
man, the intricate dynamics of our political
landscape often prompt fervent supporters to
lash out at anyone who appears to challenge
the status quo. This reaction embodies
a troubling mentality that disregards the
insightful counsel suggesting that when a
bee stings, one should avoid the instinctive
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impulse to annihilate all beehives. Instead, it
encourages us to embrace the opportunity to
become a bee farmer, nurturing rather than
destroying. This harsh cruelty not only stifles
rational discourse but also marginalizes men,
making them feel impotent in their capacity
to engage in the essential task of rebuilding
a political consciousness rooted in authentic
leadership and effective governance.
The results of the Kenyan elections have
sparked widespread contemplation about
the disconnect between eloquent manifestos
and the actions that follow. Elections
have regrettably become synonymous
with violence, leaving many men feeling
politically emasculated and powerless
to resist the encroaching tide of societal
disintegration while trying to serve the
interests of opportunistic politicians.
In this turbulent political environment, the
invocation of gender by many politicians
often masquerades as a call for inclusivity.
However, this façade of equality is largely a
deceptive ploy, unrelated to genuine equity
but designed to convey a sense of normalcy
amidst chaos. This illusion is further
perpetuated by the media, which tends
to amplify the clashes between dominant
masculine figures, who routinely occupy the
front pages and news cycles, overshadowing
the voices of those striving for meaningful
change.
In this intricate political landscape, women
and children are frequently relegated to
a subordinate role, their voices muted
in the broader community discourse.
This raises pressing questions for us as