The debate on tolerance and consensus has animated the current civic debate on the proposed constitution. As i dug into my academic archives, i came across an article by Prof Lutz Simon entitled Faith and the dilema between tolerance and arbitrariness in society and politics. Prof Simon presented the paper as in Germany as Njeri Kabeberi was awarded the inaugural "Prize for outstanding commitment to law and justice", in Germany.
There are several lessons we can share from the article on tolerance. He begins on the basis that faith in God is absolute but the excercise of one's faith should not promote an intolerant attitude towards those of a different faith or opinion. This foundation is true for the believer and non-believer.
Tolerance means getting to know the other person's religious persuation, accepting it but that without examining one's own faith in a way as to call into question such faith or some of its essential elements.
Tolerance nevertheless must not advocate arbitrariness on part of the individual. It must not make one's faith a puppet of political, ethical, social or cultural interests estranged from faith. Prof Simon concludes by emphasizing that it is indeed possible to live as a multi-religious society.
Tolerance calls for acceptance not assimilation. Critical point to note is that in demanding tolerance one must excercise it. This is critical to the point made before, that rights and responsibilities go hand in hand. Rights cannot be claimed in ignorance of the duties required by law, of the state and individuals to give full effect to those rights.
Tolerance is required for peace, love and unity in a democratic and free Kenya.
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