The juice about Kenya's elections: Lesson for businesses

This year I have two good observations about the Kenyan election campaign. I call them juice since they are very refreshing.

The first juice is that despite the push by some politicians to play the ethnic card, there is every sign that Kenyans are now brighter and wiser. During the nominations, we saw Kenyans from across the country rejecting candidates who were not elected democratically. Kenyans, especially in rural areas, worked hard to ensure that the candidate who won their hearts and minds secured the party nomination. The ‘big boys’ in Nairobi had no control over the will and determination of rural folks. They tried granting direct nominations but failed in some cases. It shows that politics is about the people. It’s a bottom-up approach. I only hope that we shall not give politicians room to use the tribal card.

The second, juice relates to the real contest. What do I mean? In the past Kenyans have been made to believe that elections is a contest between ethnic tribes. Sadly, this notion is far from over. However, it is now emerging that elections is about the ability of leaders to understand the problems affecting the people and offering practical solutions to these problems. It is about the ability of citizens to live a dignified life, where they can access their basic needs with ease. It is about giving people an opportunity afford quality life. It is about justice and fairness for all despite our present circumstances.

For instance, we can have supper highways, yet a majority of our city residents cannot enjoy a better life. Only those with the ‘monies’ will benefit from the boom in property prices and this is not what Kenyans are looking for. A leader who is able to deliver quality life this will win our hearts, minds and ultimately, our votes.

On the same note a business that works to first win the hearts and minds of their customers will be very successful, I dare say. As we have always said on this blog, business (and now elections) is about people. It is about ensuring that present generations enjoy quality life and future generations have a world to live in.

Enjoy a glass of cold juice.