Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

S.S, Canada — Tue, 08 Jan 2008 22:10:57 GMT

I was born in East Africa and corruption is the worst problem ever. Innocent people die because of tribal differences and all due to... rich, loud corrupted officials. Sad to say but welcome to the real world.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

M, San Antonio — Tue, 08 Jan 2008 22:16:49 GMT

That is the history of Africa in the post colonial years.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Lorna , San Diego, Ca — Tue, 08 Jan 2008 22:20:14 GMT

If all of us could see the tragedy first hand, maybe more of us would help.. but instead we watch and wait, always someone elses problem. Thank you for taking the time to put some perspective on it, that most of us never have a chance to see.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

jacqueline carter, Chesapeake,Va — Tue, 08 Jan 2008 22:23:47 GMT

i think that is sad that it is happening. i wish it wasen't happening.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Kim, Baltimore, Maryland — Tue, 08 Jan 2008 22:33:02 GMT

There is so much pain and suffering in the world for the have nots and no one seems to care. Least of all those that do have. It's sad and sickness inducing to see the way people treat one another. The senseless violence and all because of greed for money and power. There is a special place in hell for the people responsible for this madness.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Carolyn, Salt Lake City, UT — Tue, 08 Jan 2008 22:41:27 GMT

I visited Kenya in 1998 and loved it, but remember that when we were in public places we had to be very careful not to make any statements that could be construed as against the ruling leader. Yes...greed and corruption are rampant. Whether dying in Kenya for nothing or Iraq for nothing...it's really all the same.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Bill Lay, Aberdeen WA — Tue, 08 Jan 2008 22:44:00 GMT

and we are complaining about things here in the US?...if any of us had to face conditions like these we would come to understand how free and safe our country really is, in spite of it all!

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Martin Njoroge, Philadelphia, PA — Tue, 08 Jan 2008 22:48:44 GMT

The writer does capture the scenario in Kenya very well. As the common man fights his neighbor, kills him, maims him, loots his property, the real victim is not the politician but the poor man himself. Reality will strike when it is a bit late, and the common man will be left poorer while the politicians instigating the violence are having quiet talks in the five star hotels in Nairobi. Kenyans must not allow themselves to be used as pawns by some politicians who put their own interests before those of the citizens. Thank you Mr Fletcher for this unbiased article.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Katy Bussler, Farmington, MN — Tue, 08 Jan 2008 22:53:12 GMT

It is too bad that there isn't any oil over there for us to exploit and use up for them so we'd have some reason to occupy Kenya and force them into becoming a democracy.
The situations that keep happening on the continent of Africa are horrendous and hardly anyone steps in to help defend these people. Charities and volunteering can only do so much. We're supposedly a rich country. Why can't we do more for them?

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Stephen Kenny, San Diego, CA — Tue, 08 Jan 2008 22:55:05 GMT

I was born and raised in Nigeria. This problem is endemic to post-colonial Africa, and the West must assume some of the blame. From Sirra Leone, to Liberia, to Darfur and now Kenya - we take the resources and hope someone else will solve the problems. I feat that it will never end...

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Fabian Gagnon, Albuquerque, NM — Tue, 08 Jan 2008 23:08:43 GMT

This is a very sad story as it sounds so familiar as to what is occuring in our own country. I speak about what "Corporate America" is doing in every segiment of American. Thank you

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Alex Obaitan, Washington DC — Tue, 08 Jan 2008 23:09:02 GMT

Such an insightful account. The account you just gave of men celebrating and toasting each other just took place in Nigeria. It is so sad and infuriating!!!

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

E.W. — Tue, 08 Jan 2008 23:22:44 GMT

The United States of America is not the world's police force.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

ck, Los Angeles, CA — Tue, 08 Jan 2008 23:23:30 GMT

I am a central african and do think we africans have to stand up and make a serious and honest effort to shape our destiny. Nobody else can really do that. It is our job. We ran out of excuses a long time ago.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Jeff B, Seattle, WA — Tue, 08 Jan 2008 23:23:32 GMT

The violence that is being exhibited in Kenya is the same as what happened in Rwanda and is to be expected when population exceeds a country's carrying capacity. Per the CIA factbook, 42% of the population is under the age of 14. The population growth rate of Kenya is 2.8% per year due to each women bearing 4.8 children. Unemployment is at 40%. The violence is being driven by abject poverty and stressed resources. I'm afraid that negotiations will be fruitless in the end.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

FW Washington — Tue, 08 Jan 2008 23:32:45 GMT

These elites and the social situation they represent in Kenya is indicative of the social/economic situation all over Afrika. God Willing, the Afrikan poor people will cross tribal lines and make the necessary changes, post-haste.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Kurt New Jersey — Tue, 08 Jan 2008 23:34:54 GMT

I was born in Uganda where my father was the education inspector of Uganda. Look what happened to Uganda under Idi Amin. Uganda was prospering before Idi Amin and look at it now the same thing is happening in Kenya it is a place where the police give guns to thugs and watch from a distance when they rob people or businesses. I visited Kenya five years ago and was robbed by two policeman who stopped our car while coming from a casino, when we went to the police station both police who robbed us were there and started lauging. It is one of the best countries with plenty of wild life if this keeps up it will all end like it did in Uganda.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

jw — Tue, 08 Jan 2008 23:57:19 GMT

So Lorna, exactly what should *we* do to stop this? When two groups of people are determined to fight each other, they will. How long did the Catholics and Protestants fight each other in Ireland? And, in case you didn't realize, this kind of thing is rampant in East, South, North, West, and central Africa. Africa is a large continent. Who would be the policeman for the entire continent?

The most encouraging thing about this article to me was the beginning of realization of the ridiculousness of this conflict. They should stop fighting each other and toss out the rich guys who live high at their expense. The only people who can permanently fix this problem are those involved.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Bob San Diego, CA — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 00:03:04 GMT

"That is the history of Africa in the post colonial years."

In the pre-colonial years as well.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Eliabu Minja, Manchester CT 06040 — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 00:05:47 GMT

It's a pity...but this election has really caused deep rooted tribal fissures to erupt, leading to the orgy of violence we witnessed.It will take eons for us
to think of ourselves first as Kenyans then members of our respective tribes...a nationalist leader like Julius Nyerere is what we require, not the corrupt official we have.God Bless my country.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Don Perry, Miami, FLA — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 00:16:36 GMT

Why is Africa so corrupt? I just don't get it.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Mike Morris Singer/Songwriter Colorado Springs, CO. — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 00:24:50 GMT

One thing that I wish I could do but its far out and impossible, is to gather everyone in the entire world and overthrow the government, theres more of us than them and its possible if we were all together.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Bill B Modesto CA — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 00:49:13 GMT

Here comes another Rwanda.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

J.T. Ballwin mo — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 01:10:14 GMT

I have Lived in southern Africa, Where tribalism is more important than good leadership. The human rights of the minority tribe don't exist.This all goes back to the borders that were decided by others with out regard to ethnic relation ship.The same thing happened in the middle east with the brake up of the Ottoman empire after WWI. Will there ever be peace in Africa or the Middle East, Not until the true Leader comes Back and his name is Jesus.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Diana Morley — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 01:57:12 GMT

I have read several books that disillusioned me about our country helping people abroad. Just heard about Naomi Klein's book, "The Shock Doctrine" and feel that this is part of the larger picture.

I feel anger, sadness, and determination to continue to do what I can: write to representatives, vote, write letters to the editor, call up talk shows, talk to friends and neighbors, and so on.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Jade, San Francisco — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 11:10:43 GMT

African leaders have leaned from the current US administration that fear pays. We fund African “leaders” believing these corrupt, incompetent thieves have the ability to fight terrorism. Between 1970 and 2001, Africa received US$400 Billion in aid and has very little to show for it. Making matters worse, counties like Kenya have a pathetic record of transparency. We have no idea where the money is going- cars and starched shirts apparently. They use their citizens in the same way terrorists use human shields- they gain our sympathy via the deplorable treatment of their own people.

Things are looking up in the region, however, it is almost certain that Jacob Zuma (recently acquitted on rape charges) will become South African president in 2009. This practicing polygamist, father of 14, and former guerrilla leader does have a few challenges ahead. He is now facing allegations that he accepted bribes from a French company with which he was involved in a multibillion-dollar arms deal. Few expect any of these issues to get in the way of a big win. He is, after all, beloved by his poor countryman.

Here in America we have crumbling, inner-city schools, epidemic gang warfare, and 40-million citizens without healthcare. Where is the call to put the US taxpayers’ money to use bettering the lives of our own tribe? Africans needs to solve Africa’s problems. 40 years of white-led assistance has done more harm than good.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

pj, Indiana — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 11:56:04 GMT

Sadly there is corruption in all government.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Bess Moore Grnville Illinois — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 12:16:21 GMT

Is it much different in the U.S.?? It's just hidden a little better. The rich(politicians)get richer and the poor get poorer.Same premise.Look around you! America wake up!

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Sitna Ali — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 12:28:56 GMT

i think your perspective is as close to the truth as any i have had. i live in nairobi where in the middle income Parklands area, things are getting back to 'normal'. the shops are open, people are going to work, no houses burnt, there is food, no one displaced. and here we are organising emergency medical camps, galvanising 'ordinary' citizens to help each other with clothes, blankets, diapers.

and what is the executive doing? naming a new cabinet and the opposition bracing itself for a fight in parliament.

people are dying! is there any thing more real than that?

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Robert Oloo, Columbia, SC — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 12:57:39 GMT

I was born in that sprawling slum called Kibera and I have first hand experience of the hatred that politician spread among jobless youth and the poor to their advantage. Kenyans are slowly taking control of their destiny and forging a direction for their country. This is evident through the rejections of the breed of politicians who use the poor but add no value to their lives.
The politicians you saw at the serena hotel are probably that last of the loathed breed.
Please pray for my country, Kenya. And to Kenyans, please please DO NOT hack each other to death, DO NOT burn each others houses, the politicians are just using us.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Tony Johnson, New York City, New York — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 13:02:05 GMT

NBC should be proud of Martin Fletcher. Hopefully you will continue to support and encourage him. There are serious answers to these serious problems (we have them), programs to apply these answers (we have this, too), and some of us with the abilities to choose the right people to apply these answers and programs successfully (we have done this). The PROBLEM is finding people in leadership positions, who SINCERELY care about solving the problems, and who will prove it by supporting those of us who have proven WITH RESULTS, that we know what to do to DRAMATICALLY reduce violence, corruption, etc., at the same time helping REAL leaders overcome their enmity toward one another, permitting them to come to, and act on, conclusions that benefit them, and their people - including those most rich, AND most in need. The world, including Kenya, is filled with people in leadership positions who are not real leaders. We have proven we know how to change this. The problems of the world are caused by people, not by a lack of resources, so it is the "people problem" that must be solved. We have proven no one can do it better, nor faster, than we can, and people who sincerely care, like Martin, remind us we are not alone in our caring, and help keep us motivated, willing to continue taking the serious, and often dangerous, risks necessary to succeed, and be relentless in our doable, and very important pursuit of peace for the world. You are welcome to share our email address with anyone SERIOUSLY interested in helping world peace become a reality. My best wishes to Martin, his family, friends, colleagues, and NBC for presenting his blog.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Francine, Bowling Green OH — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 13:10:16 GMT

We can't change every country in the world. We can do what we are able and pray. We may end up like this if bush continues with his war in Iraq. We have money for bullets but not for the poor in this world.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Jess, NY — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 13:13:10 GMT

Everyone wants the United States to help them, except for the ones we are already "helping". Why don't we just help the ones that actually need it?

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

ccalhoun, Atlanta, Ga — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 13:18:40 GMT

The key to the whole problem is loving your neighbor as yourself. We do not know how to reconcile differences with each other. We forget that all blood is red and you cannot tell the difference when it is shed.
When we see each member of the human race as our family, all violence everywhere will cease.

cc of Atlanta, Ga

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

JS Kansas — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 13:53:19 GMT

Why don't the people in this country that make a big deal out of wanting to be called African Americans go to Africa and help them out. They won't because they are no better then the politicians of Africa, they like there comfort and the freedom here. The post by people from Africa claiming to be born there what are you doing to help out your people there beside putting a post on the web? The situation in Africa is different then Iraq even though I seen a few post trying to put the two together. The African people are not training or funding terrorist to come to the US and run planes in our buildings or kill Americans. The military is starting a theatre in Africa to combat terrorist there. Where is the likes of Sharpton and Jackson, why don't they go to Africa and try to stop the violence instead of trying to start violence here? I do agree we shoulld not give one more dime to Africa until they can become civilized and the money that is spent on Africa should be used here at home or given to he military who is actually trying to defend our FREEDOM.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

S B, Indianapolis, Indiana — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 14:09:22 GMT

What a brilliant description of the disparity between the powerful and powerless Kenya. While living there in 2006, I was invited to a meeting at the Intercontinental Hotel in Nairobi, another bastion of backroom dealmaking in Kenya. When arranging the meeting, the starched shirt wearing, dark-suit clad government official told me with a chuckle that the Intercontinental Hotel serves "the best chi in town." "Chi" is the word for tea but also refers to a "bribe" in the Kenyan context. And indeed, at my meeting with this official, I was solicited for a bribe while sipping my milky Kenyan tea. The cup of lukewarm tea was mediocore, my image of Kenya was forever tarnished and I because I did not pay the bribe, my life became very, very difficult. Martin Fletcher's report succinctly and brilliantly captures the two worlds of Kenya, and demonstrates why the poor just keep getting poorer (and more violent) in Africa and other places where corruption and abject poverty are endemic.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Clarissa Thompson Norfolk, VA — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 14:32:02 GMT

im sorry this has to happen to my brothers and sister and if i had one wish the people of sudan and kenya would be set free to leave the life they aim to leave. all these people ask for is peace and unity, the sad part is that day may never come. the fact is just like racism is in the blood and goes back for generations, its the same as genecide. its allll the rebels and whatever they want to call themselve. i hope for my humble brothers and sister of another country they will one day get the peace they deserve and that the bad blood is washed away and i wish genecide among the people that hand it out. Thats the only way life would ever be able to grow

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Richard Davis, Georgetown, TX. — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 14:37:03 GMT

One comment stated "It's always someone else's problem"...it's true. The focus of the free world can take most of the credit for that. This is truly the age old Evil vs. Good and Rich vs. Poor. This may be what the govern meant but this is not what God meant. Shame on the the mess people!

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Bob Anderson, Phoenix, Arizona — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 14:43:22 GMT

In no way is th US responsible for Africa's inability to govern itself. We had and have nothing to do with religious, tribal and ethnic hatred for their fellow Africans.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

alex, michigan — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 14:44:48 GMT

E.W. - if you walk out into your yard, and your neighbor accross the street is beating his wife mercilessly do you intervene? there is a substantial difference between "proactive" and "reactive".

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Joe Franken — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 14:47:57 GMT

The U.S. was founded, evolved and thrived. Nobody helped. Perhaps some trial by fire and growing pains are needed to forge a viable society in Africa.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Sophie, Lubbock, Texas — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 14:49:50 GMT

As already mentioned above, the situation in Kenya is certainly representative of a post-colonial country still struggling to use the system that we forced on them, creating a hierarchy and handing power to people then leaving and not explaining how to use it. So when someone said that it was a shame there was no oil because then the US would go in and force a democracy I was a little confused. Was that not what we did in the first place? Can people not learn a little from the old colonial era? You can not change people by telling them who to be and what to believe.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Laura, South Jersey — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 14:50:35 GMT

"To whom much is given, much is expected...". We have been a blessed country, thanks to our roots in democracy and christianity. We are required to share that with the world.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

JenK, Prattsburgh, NY — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 14:51:05 GMT

The US cannot make everyone happy, we cannot solve the worlds problems, and we should not feel guilt over things we did not do. Only when other countries stop begging us for help and start solving their own problems will things get better. Fact is, we are human and there will always be areas with strife and conflict-it is in our natures. There are many more Kenyan citizens than politicians, it is up to the people to demand change.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

James Vaughn — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 15:00:01 GMT

Sad but people need to take action in their lives. These people are pathetic.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Bennie Hammonds, Charlotte, North Carolina — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 15:02:16 GMT

Back in the seventies, when I was in college, I debated with my Dad about Africa and what it meant to us. I would preach about the glories of ancient Egypt and how black people built vast kingdoms long ago. My Dad would remind me about tribal slaughter in Nigeria and tell me I wouldn't want to live in Africa now. I look at Rwanda, Sudan, Ethiopia, Somalia. He was right, God bless his soul. He was right.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Mark, Pittsburgh PA — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 15:04:57 GMT

"This is a very sad story as it sounds so familiar as to what is occuring in our own country. I speak about what "Corporate America" is doing in every segiment of American. Thank you "

This is one the most absurd statements I've ever read. People in Kenya are dying while we in the U.S. are enjoying lives where the most pressing issues involve who's winning on American Idol. How could you even begin compare the two? Also keep in mind that the reason we have such easy lives is because we both work for and invest in "Corporate America".

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Jamie, Minneapolis MN — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 15:06:08 GMT

I'm so sorry this is happening. I have many friends from kenya who are here and are terrified for their families who are there. I have always appreciated living in the country I do. I have always cherished that this would never happen here, but stuff like this makes me appreciate it even more, and I didn't think that was even possible. I can't even imagine having to live in constant fear of being killed over nothing. My heart goes out to these people, and I have sent clothing, rood, prayers, and baby items with a fellow Kenyan friend who is going to visit her family next week. She has been planning htis trip for months, and refused to cancel it because of this. In fact she is even mroe inspired to see her mom and brothers now. She is very brave, and is taking not only material donations from all of us here, but also our, love, hugs ,and prayers to everyone there.-------------------------Jamie, Minneapolis MN

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

PMC, Potwin, KS — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 15:12:37 GMT

Corruption shows a lack of trust in others to be fair and moral problem with greed. I have little doubt that the wealthy polititians are doing what the majority of poor Kenyans would do in the same situation. Sounds like a spiritual problem.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Mtwoo SF — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 15:15:39 GMT

True that Kenya is going through what Rwanda went through several years ago. This is partly because the two main tribes in Kenya think that they can rule and sit on the rest of the country. True, we all agree that the vote counting was tampered with from both sides but why should the opposition in Kenya be the ones crying loudest when they are guilty of the same crimes that they are accusing the government of committing. I might not share the sentiments of my beloved countrymen but I think it is about time that Kenyans act maturely and think a head of the politicians. For one, Raila and Kibaki are sitting comfortably in their houses and watching as innocent Kenyans kill each other and Raila has the audacity to claim that freedom has its own risks. What a loser. I would like to see Castro, Raila's son demonstrate on the streets of Nairobi, and then I will believe that they stand for a cause and then will freedom have a price to be paid.
The violence from the home country has spread to Kenyans abroad. These are our future leaders who profess to have grown above the tribal lines that exist back in the country but the last one week has witnessed animosities among Kenyans living in the states that one might think that we have imported the whole Kenya with its problems to the states.
We should as future leaders demonstrate some degree of criticality when it comes to settling arguments

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Lynette Ladd, Leesburg,Florida — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 15:21:22 GMT

The governments must have social programs to help the poor. That is what government is elected to do: help its people have freedom in a constructive form,prosperity and safety. What is it these elected officials don't get? If the country prospers,the people prosper,and in turn they prosper.
The love of money is the root of all evil.So what else is old news?

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Tiffany, Chicago, IL — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 15:24:15 GMT

I am very pleased to see this type of coverage of Africa being undertaken by the press in the United States. Africa is crucial to the world being able to counteract the threat of terrorism and terrorist who would no doubt use Africa as a primary training base. I agree with several of the other bloggers who attributed this situation in Kenya and in a great majority of Africa to the lingering effects of colonialism. If Africa is allowed to be further exploited bu its own people and by those in power in America and other industrialized countries- violence in all of Africa's countries will only escalate.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

keith,USA — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 15:25:22 GMT

i never understand why people burn and loot the very stores they shopped in the day before. whether it happens in US in california during the riots or the streets of Kenya. unreasonable people do unreasonable things. things reasonable people cant understand. unfortunately it seems the middle east and africa have plenty of unreasonable people to go around. when a country destroys itself why does the whole world look to the US to help? heres an idea from the US - hey Kenya, want peace? stop burning and killing your neighbors. i am sure you killing your neighbor will certainly get the politicians to think twice and have a re-count. when bush/gore had a problem, did we burn and loot our local 7-11s? i certainly didnt rise up and rape my neighbor. reasonable people protested in a civil way and respected the law. BTW the whole world is shaking their heads and laughing at your stupidity. everyone wants to come to your country and see the beautiful sites. but if you keep acting like kids we will spend our money in another country and you all can eat dirt. and everyone else stop crying for these people. if your neighbor intentionally pours gas on his house and burns all his possessions, would you feel sorry? no, you'd laugh and call him a fool. case dismissed.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

sarah NY — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 15:25:31 GMT

you ask why we are not helping Africa..its really quite simple..there is no oil or monetary gain in Africa..those of you that think the governments of this world care about people, are fooling only yourselves.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

KJ, Georgia — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 15:32:16 GMT

I'm sick over this. Where is the humanity? What has happened to the all of us all over the world? We value material possessions and power over people. One thing I know for certain is this: Karma is real, you will fully reep everything you sow. God bless us all.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

kathy, phoenix — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 16:11:33 GMT

I agree with jeff in seattle, didn't know the numbers but believe that worry about where your next meal may come from can cause all kinds of mayhem. The people that think someone else should go help should go themselves. Any aid our government gives goes to the starch shirts an any country we claim to help so unfortunately for the poor in the country that doesn't help, as sad as it may be. The real problem all the good people don't see is how close we are to becoming that. All the money we are spreading around is money we don't have, borrowed from elsewhere, simply not air. This is catching up to us and good help us, but we may be as bad off as Kenya. It's scary to look at the truth of things, but look around you at the economy, do you really think the trillions we are sending out their can be paid for by our taxes, there isn't that much money coming in.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

John Doe,Seattle Wash — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 16:15:26 GMT

It's there country to run the way they want it.It seems so many from Kenya who are educated are smart enough to get out and save themselves.That's why they are here. The United States should stay out. Kenya does not want white rule.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Bob Hellyer — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 16:19:59 GMT

This will stop when the western countries stop trying to impose democracy on a people who have no traditions except might makes right,

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Ashley, Boise, Idaho — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 16:35:12 GMT

I watch the today show nearly every morning, and they have some great programs. But what frustrates me is that this kind of stuff needs to be headlined! no wonder people aren't doing anything, because they either don't know or they ignore it. The United States is at war, and half of us are still ignoring that, thinking that the problem will fade, or disapear. Africa has numerous wars, so many deaths. How can we, you, ignore that? We live perfectly, in nice subdivisions, and they live on dirt. We are selfish. while some people die every so often over in Iraq, thousands are slaughtered, raped, and executed because they have different names and are from different backgrounds. Now, I know there is a great cause over in Iraq, but when is it going to end? I think it's great that we have reporters in Africa, but they dont get rewarded enough. They dodge death and possible severe injuries so we can learn about whats going on over there, so maybe someone might help. It takes more than one rich person to help. And you wonder why everything is so bad in Africa? if We took the time that we've thought about the problems and applied it to sovling the issue, Africa would be cured and heck, Iraq probably would be also. So, if anyone reads this that has the complete power to make a change or a difference, maybe after we are heros over in Iraq, we could be saviors in Africa. I know there is people who think that we need to stop interfearing with other countries and start focusing on our own, but this would show our countrie's morals and compassion. Like i said earlier, many of us live in great houses, we make great money, and some of us freak out over not being able to buy milk. But, in Africa, people just wish that they wont die that day. We dont just have to be the best, or the strongest, but we can be the best all around. Please help them, they are human beings like ourselves, dont be blind or selfish.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Mike Newport Beach, CA — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 16:36:18 GMT

Hmmm......killing, burning, looting....sounds like Detroit in the 1960's, Los Angeles in the 1990's, and New Orleans in 2005. Martin Luther King Jr, Jesse Jackson, Louis Farrakhan, Tom Bradley, and Ray Nagin were the ones with the suits, big black cars; meeting in hotels, high fiving, laughing and smiling. And they still are.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

joshua makori — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 16:37:26 GMT

Wonderful piece. The tragedy of African politics is that the elite benefit while the masses follow blindly based on tribal/community affiliations. Kenyans exercised their rights but the elite thwarted this by "stealing" the elections. Unfortunately most of the west has never understood the Africa elite well. The USA and a few allies ruled out re-run elections, i guess deliberately and pre-emptively for their own reasons. this way they paved way for a dictatorship without caring about the Kenyan people's interest. These "allies" forgot that Western pressure is so essential for growing democracies to take root. By thinking narrowly and short-term they ruined bigger gains to all (incl the West) in the long haul. When will everyone learn?

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Gabriel { Fort Worth ,Texas — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 16:41:59 GMT

The corruption will never end in every government in this world because corruption is the natural blood stream in the body of human beings. I think corruption now become another disease like aid in the authorities. The medicines for corruption is the leaders to execute the laws. And leaders do not execute the laws and that why there is no changes in every government.And I believe some leaders are the frist victims when they start applying the laws according to people expectations. Corruption will never end unless leaders must execute the laws despite who make wrong.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Mutisya Kaviti — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 16:46:55 GMT

I am an opinionated Kenyan. Many readers have asked why corruption is so rampant in Africa. One, it is called corruption if its African, and lobbying if it is in Washington. Whatever you call it. It is corruption all the same. Two, corruption in Africa is largely perpetuated by Western multinationals competing for business in Africa. Case in Point, why wont Vodafone tell us who owns Mobitelea( a company that owns 5% of Safaricom Kenya shares)?
Three, the colonial masters segregated Kenyans in to tribal zones to thwart organized resistance. Colonial history texts refer to Kenyans as Luos, Kikuyus, Nandis, Kambas, Maasai etc. It will take many years of work to reconcile tribal interests with nationhood.
Four, Kenya as a state is only 43 years old. The French and Stalinist revolutions that slaughtered more occurred in arguably mature states. Kenya is far from mature.
Last but not least, the divide is between the rich ruling class and the ruled. The former inherited the colonialists tools and continue to use the same to thwart the latters claim to power up to this day.
But a new dawn for Africa is breaking because the young will refuse to join the nay sayers, the prophets of doom, the non believers. You may have missed the message of the last elections, the overwhelming theme was a generational change was imminent and that non performance would not be tolerated. We will heal our country and rise again as brothers and sisters. Those who resist this new found wisdom will be voted out of office. We will create the institutions that we need to succeed. The presidential system that has weakened the other arms of government will be removed as Kenya goes back to a parliamentary system. This move will strengthen political parties and promote ideas based leadership. Political parties will answer collectively for their failures. In short, Kenya will rise from the ashes and prosper.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Damon, Los Angeles CA — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 16:50:07 GMT

Life in the streets of Los Angeles has shown me how easily one man can take the life of another. If you gave food and sustenance to everyone of the people who needed it in Kenya (or anwhere else for that matter), they probably wouldn't kill eachother over the politics that they blame for the circumstances that they find themselves in. Inside, the ones killing now, would still be capable of killing though. If you don't start off with the idea that killing is wrong, you'll never be able to stop yourself from doing it when your situation compels you to lash out, whether it be due to anger, frustration or need. Goodness and morality starts at an early age and needs to be reinforced throughout life. Not all poor people kill.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

joe canada — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 16:58:26 GMT

I beleive it is the corrupt government in all the developed countries that creates these wars and for now it will not change for good but it will get worse because our corrupt government is only getting better at what we do which is murder and that is the current goverment objective until a drastic change it government of powerful nations like u.s.a , china etc. all people are of earth are now under threat of death from these nations including people who live in them and the way its set up theres nothing normal people can do about it beacuse all candidates for election are corrupt from the get go.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

David Katayama, Arcadia, CA — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 17:12:18 GMT

This is a perfect example of the cliche "If you always do what always you've done, you'll always get what you've always gotten." The U.S., Europe, and parts of Asia have been forgiving billions of dollars of loans, and pouring billions more in charity for nothing. Absolutely no result. Something needs to change in order to get a different result. Let these corrupt governments go bankrupt and repossess their countries for the people.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Charles Telk, Des Moines, Iowa — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 17:12:22 GMT

"To whom much is given, much is expected...". Hey Laura - do you have any knowledge of US history??? Nothing was give to us - maybe given to you. Many many many American men (and a few women) have fought, bled and died for what we in the US take for granted. I served 6 years in the US Army. I donate to charity. What do you do? And besides, it is not the US's responsibility to take care of everything around the world. Look at the flak we take in Iraw

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Sue — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 17:15:08 GMT

Don't we have enough problems in our own country to tend to first. We are just as divided as they are, political wise. I personally am tired of everyone expecting the US to fix the World's problems and then in the next breath they bad mouth us. Where is European countries and other Democratic nations, why is it always us???

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

steve, NY — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 17:17:34 GMT

the US better go do something. always someone saying we better go do something, thats horrible, terrible in some backwater coutry. those who say we should go do something should remember those people who you so quickily send off to these countries are someones son or daughter. so high and mighty that we'd better go do something, your right, you'd better - so march your kid down to the recruitment office and sign them up or sign up yourself. otherwise sit down and shut up. we have homeless here, we have poverty here, ignorance and racism here. you dont have to look 1/2 the world away to see it. you dont see Kenyans or Rwandans saying aint that sad we'd better go do something.
sad yes. but Mutisya is right. they need to fix their own mess and hold their heads high. then you will here the thuderous applause of the world standing with them.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Gerrie — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 17:18:34 GMT

I don't see why people are surprised. If you look at every country, you will find the same thing. The people (rich) people of Africa would say: why can't we have the same thing and do the same thing that these other countries are doing. People the world will not change unless you see countries like the US, England, China, Russia and others change and care about the less fortunate people. No one who are making these comments really cares what goes on in other countries. You just like to voice your opinions, especially people in the US. Take care of you own, before you try to start taking care of someone else.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Chuck, Shady Hills, Florida — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 17:23:03 GMT

Africans have only themselves to blame. The colonial influences are long gone, but there has been no significant improvement. Complaints of White rule in South Africa resulted in the takeover by native Black Africans, and how well has that worked out?
In Africa there is a huge continent with a substantial population, that, for the most part, contributes almost nothing to the rest of the world in terms of technology, medicine, education, or consumer products; no automobiles, heavy equipment, computers, no breakthroughs in advancing the human condition.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

country cuz — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 17:27:08 GMT

Carolyn- I fail to understand your analogy of "dying in Kenya for nothing" as to "dying in Iraq for nothing." Is this in relationship to Saddam's reign or are you stating that our soldiers only have tea/milk for dinner. Please explain.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Doug Lay Lebanon , Ohio — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 17:28:16 GMT

I hope we can learn how to stop it. Everyday our country is getting closer to the same situation on a different scale. Corruption and greed end up spawning an awful lot of desparity , violence, and pain. Revolution may be the only necessary way to stop it temporarily. We should not be a country by the corporations for the corporations. If your household earns 120k or more, you will only get more. If your houshold earns 40k to 100k, you will only get less, so that those earning many times more than you already, can compete with each other for the most. Greed began with Adam and Eve, none of us have been able to stop it yet. Poloticians and corporations will not stop it, they benefit from it. God will fix it.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Barth Drux — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 17:36:45 GMT

Tribes are a pointless relic of the past. You kill each other for what?

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Louise Haywood, Fort Wayne, IN — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 17:49:32 GMT

First, I must commend Mr. Fletcher on a well written story about man's inhumanity to man in Nairobi,Kenya. I feel those people pain, because I have ample food to eat. I feel their pain because I'm blessed to have a roof over my head, heat in winter and air conditioning in the summer. I feel their pain because I have the basic things I need to exist. However, Mr. Fletcher and others do not need to travel to Afica to encounter such artrocities, it's happening right here in the U.S.A. That should not be an issue since America is perceived as one of the richest countries in the world. Yet, most people turn a deaf ear and a blind eye to the hunger, homeless and unemployment that exist right in their own backyard. Instead, we tend to concentrate on what's happening in other countries. We can talk or comment on other countries' shortcomming when all our homeless have homee, all our hungry are fed and all our working population obtain jobs. Meanwhile, take care of home,first.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Raymond Foret — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 17:52:39 GMT

Human greed and distrust of his fellow man is not separated by borders and countries. His eternal journey to find and possess his only other human counterpart leads him to forsake all the good that may be in his heart. Human tragedy is rampant and doing well in this world and I do believe we as a species are flawed and doomed. Until we face the reality that we are here because of fateful changes in astrology, biology and random physiology we will surely be relegated to be another extinct species that inhabited this wonder we know as PLANET EARTH.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Angeline Wachira, Swansea, United Kingdom — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 17:54:42 GMT

I am a Kenyan student in the UK and I am amazed at how quick non-Africans have labelled Kenyans savages.

Nevertheless, I would like to shed some light on the tribal aspect of the violence in Kenya today. During the colonial times (1800's-1963) Kenya was divided into 8 provinces for administrative purposes. Unfortunately this division of land was not done with a proper insight into the Kenyan population as it was in the time.

The British settlers occupied large sections of the agriculturally viable parts the central province. In their occupation, they forced the indigenous people who happen to be Kikuyu in forced labour camps.

To reinforce their occupation of Kenya,they used the divide and rule style of governance where they would fuel tribal hostilties between communities.This ensured that Kenyans would not get together and kick them out of the country.

This worked but with the spread of formal education the educated Kenyans started realizing that they were being taken advantage of and that led to the push for independence.

However even with independence from the British, the seed of tribal hatred had been sown and the ruling class as stated in the above article are well aware of it.

Most of the people who had been forced into labour camps for the purpose of white settler occupation remained landless and slowly settled in all the other provinces where they went to look for work.

As they had nothing to their names they worked hard and were able to buy land in the other provinces and made them their homes.

They are now the target of ethnic violence and have been used in every election as pawns to enable greedy retain and or access power.

After independence the British settlers were replaced by the educated Kenyans who took over large chunks of land. The unfair acquisition of land was propagated by the foreign doctrine of 'sancticty of title to property' which is defended by Kenyan law which is essentially English law adopted by colonial Kenya.

This was further propagated under the guise of Africanisation in the early post indepence period and which led to a new breed of capitalist-neo colonialists. Unfortunately they more they gained the more they wanted.This has led to the present massive corruption as the people in power are too impatient to gain wealth by honest means.

Whenever there is a politician who thinks it is time he takes over the reigns of the country all he needs to do is set alight the fire of tribal hatred and the poor of his community will fight the battle for him.

A glance into the 24 years when Daniel arap Moi was president of Kenya will show that whenever the opposition (mainly comprised of people from other tribes)called for democracy in form of multi-party politics for example in 1992 and 1997 all he did was to use his tribesmen to smoke out people from other communities from the Rift valley which happens to be the largest province geographically to quieten the opposition.

Due to bad governance resources have not been adequately distributed and most Kenyans will vote for change with a sick mentality that they are voting for their tribesman will give them their turn to 'eat'.

This is due to the fact that if they vote for a person from their tribe they are certain that they will get jobs,infrastructure and all the pecks of having the national cake at their door-step. Unfortunately due to low literacy levels very few Kenyans will stop and think that the 'national cake' is actually inherited debt from the developed world.

Unfortunately experience will show that even when Kenyans vote on tribal lines, the elected leaders only share their ill-gotten wealth with their cronies and the poor remain poor.

As stated above, the ruling class in Kenya remains the same as the older politicians ensure that their sons get into government and retain their oppressive hold onto the resources belonging to Kenya for their own benefit.

Even the 'new' entrants into the political sphere have very close links with previous regimes and/or older politicians.

In my opinion,I belive the West should withdraw monetary assistance from the Kenyan government other than the very essentials which should only be donated as actual food, medicine, humanitarian assistance in the form of skills/expertise.

This will make power less desirable as there is nothing to look forward to 'eating' and may bring a solution to the vice of corruption.

Let Kenyans find ways of solving their own problems through other measures like strict tax administration systems.This is what the Kibaki administration had introduced between 2002 -2007 and in 2007 and for the 1st time in years Kenya had been able to prepare its national budget without foreign aid.

Unfortunately Kibaki has done very little to deal with corruption and has even allowed individuals who are known to be corrupt to remain in his government. This has tarnished his image and has given the opposition grounds to ensure that he is ousted from government.

I do not believe that the opposition represents real change as it is comprised of members of Moi's government from the previous regime. Several members of the present opposition are also known to be involved in corruption and fanning ethnic clashes.

The only way forward is to discourage the culture of hand-outs from the West!

This will force us Kenyans to wake up and face the reality of what we are doing to ourselves and enable us attain real independence from vices like corruption, tribalism and dependence on ethnic community leaders to tell us what to do.

The price we are paying in blood to help the rich get richer is too expensive!

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Tim Crump, Las Vegas, NV — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 17:54:59 GMT

It gets a bit tiresome to have these problems constantly characterized as "post-colonial". Tribal animosities existed long before any Europeans showed up, and actually contributed to the ease with which the Europeans gained control. They easily recruited one tribe against another, just as the warlords do today. It's human nature, existing exactly the same way in the Americas, where tribal hatreds allowed the Conquistador to marshall armies. There is always somebody who will sell out.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Maureen Roden, Gladstone, ND — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 18:40:15 GMT

Why doesn't the United States rush troups there to help? To tell the Government how they need to run things? To squelch reblers?
One word. OIL
There is no oil for us there.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Guy S. Newel — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 19:12:06 GMT

I didn't understand before that it was rich people's fault that the poor kill each other after an election. How could one incite violence this way? Why are Africans and Arabs always looking for an excuse to kill? Maybe it's nobody's "fault". Maybe it's their culture that's the problem. Maybe they're poor because of this tendency to react violently when things happen that they find unacceptable rather than the other way around.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

SB, Philadelphia, PA — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 19:14:14 GMT

Thanks for such a desciptive picture. I am struggling to not be judgmental. I don't wear gold cufflinks, but I'll spend $5 on a coffee.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Tobias, Munich, Bavaria — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 19:30:09 GMT

Democracy still worth fighting for.
The best democracies in the western world (if you see wealth and social security as the results of good democracies) have all seen some kind of revolutions.
So, I totally agree that there are a lot of selfish politicians, who are only out there for their personal gains (see Kalonzo). But I completely disagree that the poor are fighting for nothing. And I also do not agree that all politicians in Kenya are the same. Only because Kibaki and his clique has betraid Kenyans so badly, you cannot put them all in one basket.

Actually, that is what Kibaki wants people to believe: all politicians are the same, circumstances forced him to act like he did, corruption cannot be fought, and people are now only fighting because of different ethnicities. WHAT A LIE!

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Joseph Campino, Houston, Texas — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 19:30:42 GMT

Quote:
and we are complaining about things here in the
US?...if any of us had to face conditions like these
we would come to understand how free and safe our
country really is, in spite of it all!
Bill Lay, Aberdeen WA: end quote:

Bill Lay, We will not lay back and let our country, our freedoms, and our life styles go into the toilet. We will not grow complacent and passive so long as we can get our latee's at starbucks. We are American Citizens, and to allow any freedom, any lose, any reverse progress would be a slap in the face to everyone whos ever put work into our country or died for it.
So I'll tell you what you can do with your "In Spite Of It All."
Just take that and! Put it into better terms. Yes we do complain about allot, omg my coffee's to cold, they got my order wrong hazel pecan nut with mashrmellows? WTF?.
Many without understanding just how tough it can be out there. America is a great country, a great place. Lets keep it that way. A complaint is a start, but actions better. Speak to your local, state, and goverment officals. Get out and Vote! Let your voice be heard and tell people your ideas. Rally your friends, clubs, and organizations into voting power houses to improve every level of life for yourself and your children. And Absolutely, Never. Give up anything we've won for ourselves as a country, as a people.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Angela, Shakopee MN — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 19:38:55 GMT

My heart aches for the innocent people of Kenya. We are extremely fortunate to live in the United States. Regardless of how bad we think we have it theres always someone who has it worse. The word I think we all need to remember here is COMPASSION. Regardless of what our political or religous belief is on the matter these are human beings that we are discussing and not all of them are on the streets commiting the horrific crimes that we are hearing about. It is easy to sit back and pass judgement but also pass on some compassion.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Angela, Shakopee MN — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 19:38:58 GMT

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Matt, Birmingham, AL — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 20:01:54 GMT

I've heard quite a few responses now mentioning Rwanda. Kenya is a far cry from Rwanda even now. Wake up people. Being born in Kenya and having lived most of my life there I can tell you that a large part of what is happening now has little to do with politics and much more to do with opportunistic looters. There has been ethnic violence in Kenya before and unfortunmately there will likely be more in the future. This has little to do however with colonialism and far more to do with the ubiquitous chai (spell it right!) system. With the rise of a middle class in Kenya which are much more numerous than in the past as well as improvements in educational reforms this situation is far from hopeless. Shame on you people for making comparisons to the Rwandan genocide. Kenya is not Rwanda and this is not the same situation as you might realize if you lived in Kenya during that time and remember that we couldn't even eat fish from Lake Victoria due to the pollution from corpses upriver in Rwanda. I have a deep and abiding faith in the Kenyan people if not in their politicians and am certain that this situation will improve and if reports from friends in-country are corect already is improving. And to those deriding the Kikuyu mainstream politicians take a leaf from Mtwoo who so correctly pointed out that irregularities in voting procedures occured in traditionally Luo provinces as well.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

eye rockwell, charlotte, north carolina — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 20:11:32 GMT

just another example why we must be content and thankful for what we do have.. it's no time to worry about the things we don't have.. and who's to say that we're (US) are totally removed from these evils??.. just imagine if we all followed the rules set forth by God??.. Africa is an example of what could be happening to us right here in the US.. this goes beyond politics

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Wairimu, Los Angeles, CA — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 20:31:59 GMT

As a Kenyan, I am extremely saddened by the events that have been taking place in the past two weeks. I hope that some sort of political compromise can be worked out to avoid further bloodshed and animosity. May God bless our lovely country and her people. We need to realize that we are all Kenyans first and pay attention to the words of our anthem:
‘Natukae na undugu
Amani na uhuru
Raha tupate na ustawi.’
Why are we killing each other for the sakes of millionaires? What have they done for you and what do you realistically stand to gain by either of them being in power? Work hard and build yourself, very few people get government handouts, and it’s certainly not the poor youths who are being manipulated to cause havoc.

On to this article, I am both amused and insulted by some of the comments made here.

1. That the US should come and help us.
The current situation is a Kenyan problem, less tribal than economic and will best be solved by us not outsiders. International pressure and mediation may be necessary to make two bull-headed politicians meet, but the solutions will have to be homegrown. After all, the problem is. So thank you, but Kenyan problems, Kenyan solutions. It’s patronizing to say otherwise.

2. A post colonialism African problem
Were it not for colonialism, we wouldn’t have to be dealing with these issues because we would not be dealing with artificial borders cobbled together by Europeans in Europe during the infamous ‘Scramble for Africa’ with no regard to historical rivalries or alliances. Nonetheless, colonialism per se is over, we need to deal with our borders as they are and get along with the people contained within them.
Or is the implication that we were better of under colonialism? Oh those good old days of restricted movement (pass laws), detention (concentration) camps, extrajudicial killings, reservations etc.

3. Corruption and Africa.
It is a fact, many African governments are blatantly corrupt- that’s the difference between them and the West- the blatancy. Don’t lie to yourselves that Western governments are not corrupt.

4. The Kenya-Rwanda analogy.
There is little historical or current basis for the analogy. One massacre does not Rwanda make. Unlike in Rwanda, the people of Kenya have lived together for years with no real animosity. The violence was part of a political strategy to gain power by Raila. Short sighted and ultimately, I think it will prove futile.
These two tribes are NOT determined to wipe each other out. Historically, we have not had issues with each other. All this Luo-Kikuyu pseudo-rivalry nonsense was started in the 50’s & 60’s with the political rivalry between Jaramogi Odinga (Raila’s father) and Tom Mboya (he was a Luo and a great leader – Jaramogi thought him an upstart), then Jaramogi & Kenyatta v. Mboya, then Kenyatta v. Jaramogi, meanwhile Mboya got assassinated… etc. Loads of BS based on the political rivalry of two people: Jaramogi & Kenyatta.

Africa has many countries with many dynamics at play in each, why is it that one conflict is assumed to be exactly the same as the next?

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

GBoivin, Roy, UT — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 20:36:02 GMT

Yes, the Kenyan situation, and the Africa, by and large, is also very sad from any angle. Corruption is rampant and innocents die everyday, but it is an AFRICAN problem and NOT an American one. To American do-gooders reading this, I say: mind your own d--- business and quit wanting to interfere in everybody's affairs. It is not our fault if African kids are starving and they have lousy economies. Africans need to learn, on their own, that democracy while not perfect, is the only way to achieve long-term peace and prosperity. Tribal differences must be overcome by African initiatives. If it takes another 100 years, too bad, but so be it. America cannot be the policeman of the world and America is far from perfect also; we have plenty of problems to fix right here at home.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Nancy, Englewood, FL — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 21:26:21 GMT

The Kenyan people we visit on a regular basis over the past 3 years, are loving, kind, gentle people, who love family and neighbors. There are always some who take advantage of circumstance, and loot and rape. My prayer is for protection of those who have the heart of Jesus and for them to step up to minister to others. I personally (although there is a valid need)NEVER give to large charities that help (ex: Darfur). My dollars do to those I know will reach the people, not the ones that allow the government to dispurse.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

lucy, winston-salem, nc — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 21:48:34 GMT

What can we do to help? why cant all countries get together to help these poor people, they are suffering and no one cares.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Molley Jones, Boston MA — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 21:54:26 GMT

Perhaps we as Africans need to redefine our concept of leadership and responsibility. Our failure to learn from our past approach to violence and the destructions of our self is clear indication that civilization is against us and the greed of power has dominated our very existence. My dear brothers and sisters, the solution to the political problems is not to destroy ourselves. Please hold the leaders responsible for their actions.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Eric Otiende, Denver, CO, USA — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 22:25:31 GMT

The Kenya always had this tribal issue. Why is the world acting all surprised. Shortly after independence in 1963, President Jomo Kenyatta began instituting his policy of Kikuyu hegemony in all spheres of public life: economics, finance, land allocation,local government, etc. Naturally, this has led to festering resentment which exploded when Mwai Kibaki rigged himself back into office through a clearly flawed vote counting.

Additionally, previous presidents, Jomo Kenyatta and Daniel Moi are to blamed for fostering one of the most socio-economically and stratified societies in the world. Under current president Kibaki's blatant Kiuyu-centric policies resulted in this stratification growing wider contributing immensely to the festering hatred the world is now belatedly coming to acknowledge.

Kenya has always been a fairy tale.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

chri — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 22:25:47 GMT

"That is the history of Africa in the post colonial years."

"In the pre-colonial years as well."

Not really, prior to colonialization they were basically an agrarian siociety and they massacred each other for loot and land. A little different I guess. Anyone who thinks things were better before colonialization is woefully uninformed of the history of Africa.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Ron VanWagner — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 22:29:05 GMT

America gives hundreds of millions of dollars of US Aid to the governments of countries overseas, the leaders of which, pocket much of the money. US Aid should be run through international aid organizations (and not the foreign government) who direcly help the people in need. The Red Cross and Operation Blessing (run by The 700 Club) are examples of these types of organizations.

Many of the leaders of these african governments are just like Yassir Arafat, who claimed concern for the palestinian people, but pocketed Billions (yes Billions!)of foreign aid. Foreign aid needs to be depoliticized. Tribalism is alive in the 21st century. Tribalism is inappropriately reinforced when money is given to these government(aka Tribal leaders).

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Robert, Los Angeles, CA — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 22:59:22 GMT

This is certainly sad to read about, and I'm thankful that we don't have problems on that scale here. Yet when I realize that those who promote class warfare are in effect actively TRYING to create problems here on the scale of what Kenya has, I am outraged. Clearly Kenya, as well as most of Africa, has a lot of problems. Economic development would lift the people out of poverty, yet environmentalists are adamantly opposed to that, based on the man-made global warming fraud. And even if an economy did get built, what morals stop leaders from trying to take from those who earn to redistribute to those who don't earn, especially themselves? And beyond that, there are habits formed over a few thousand years in which nobody had to prepare all that far into the future, and habits of using strength to take from those weaker because the stronger could get away with it. All that has to change. The question is how will it be done?

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Jane Doe, Fresno, CA — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 23:38:24 GMT

God Bless America, and all of the freedoms that we enjoy which were paid for by the blood of patriots. The time is long over when Africa can blame 'colonialism' and the West in general for its problems. Those of you who are so concerned about people in need, open your checkbook and send money to a reputable aid organization. I'm so sick of this nonsense about 40 million without healthcare. Many choose to be without healthcare because they won't spend the money. Grow up. I am thankful that we have a President willing to take the fight to the enemy to keep us safe at home. Let's keep America a dhimmi-free zone, and let's expect Africa to rise to the occasion and solve its own problems.

STOP KILLING EACH OTHER! The idiot who said it will soon happen here is a pathetic individual. Grow up and take responsibility for your own life.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Colin Duo — Thu, 10 Jan 2008 00:28:58 GMT

It is like the old "Apartheid" regime of South Africa, but now between rich and poor Black Africans.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Just Another Proud Kenya, USA — Thu, 10 Jan 2008 00:46:50 GMT

this is probably the best blog by Fletcher who not too long ago was complaining about the bad roads in Kenya's national parks!!! (he obviously has not been in downtown Mississippi lately) - in any case - as another reader stated - until the old guard leadership is completely eliminated the problems of Africa will continue.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

NELSON EGER — Thu, 10 Jan 2008 01:18:05 GMT

AS AN IMMIGRANT TO THIS WANDERFUL NATION I CAN SAY I RECOGNIZE THE HAND OF GOD KEEPING US TOGETHER IN PEACE, IN SPIT OF THE HATE FILLED DEMOCRATS. SOME OF THEM WOULD LIKE TO KILL OUR OWN PRESIDENT IF THEY COULD. THE SAME HATRED FILLS THE HEART OF THE PAGAN AND MUSLIM PEOPLE IN AFRICA, SPEAKING IN GENERAL. IN THE FINAL ANALISYS, IT IS A PERSON THAT LIFTS UP A HAND TO SLAY HIS NEIGHBOR....REMEMBER, LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOU LOVE YOUR SELF. THAT DIDN'T COME FROM THE KORAN OR FROM A BOTTLE OF WHISKEY, BUT FROM THE LIPS OY JESUS CHRIST, WHO WAS ALSO MURDERED, HIM BEING WITHOUT SIN OR FAULT.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Tony Ntuli, Poznan, Poland — Thu, 10 Jan 2008 01:31:04 GMT

I read all these with tears in my eyes, knowing what we as Kenyans have stood for, and what we have advocated for, within and and across our borders, PEACE AND LOVE FOR ONE ANOTHER, sadly to note that it just needed a spark to have all that ran down to the drains, just because of two greedy men fighting for power. what about the boy/girl now man/woman whom you grew up together, played together, shared your MADAZI or BICYCLE ride and was from a different community, does that childhood friend, now your closest buddy, deceases been one? cause KIBAKI/RAILA are fighting for leadership, bloody sick ambitions? we the common people of Kenya are more than the two, and only us can make a difference for our generation and for our generations to come in a very peaceful mature way. Please lets not create another Rwanda,neither tolerate such kind of leaders again who are myopic and out dated in ideas. When the worst comes to the worst, their family and loved will be out of the country{most probably are} but ours will remain. Dear country men and womens lets make a positve difference now and forever politicians will not do it for us neither will they add a quarter of a kilo gram to our meals, if we don't work hard for it. let every Kenyan reading this recite the NATION ANTHEM as a remainder of what I mean. "KENYA NCHII YETU siyo NCHII YANGU" lets put self fishiness aside. GOD BLESS KENYA

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Peter, Colorado — Thu, 10 Jan 2008 01:43:14 GMT

Hey Everybody,

THE UNITED STATES DID NOT COLONIZE AFRICA!!

We certainly share the blame for enough issues around the world but we did not colonize Africa so stop blaming it on us. What's happening there is horrible and I hate to see it on the morning news but in case you haven't noticed, we have never been successful at forcing our form of government on other nations so stop suggesting it. Thats what gets us into places like Iraq. Then a few years later you're up in arms that our young men and women are dying on foreign soil.

We are not the world's police force. Stop it!

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Dan, McQueeney Texas USA Ret. — Thu, 10 Jan 2008 02:20:53 GMT

Well here I sit reading all the posts and all I can do is shake my head at all the ignorant posts blaming America for the troubles in Africa for one thing America NEVER had a colonial intrest in Africa,two all this talk about America taking oil minerals is bull all natural resourses are bought in the open market at market prices so get over that one. Three I have never worked for a poor man and I am over joyed when the companys I invest in make huge profits because I get a return on my investments so the next time you look at your pay check thank the rich man thats paying your salary, and the only reason prople are so called poor is because they are at the level they want to be and im not giving them one red cent of what i work hard for, you want to be rich get off your butt and work hard. Last but not least if you really think America is bad please go somewhere else and stop sucking up my taxes.In 23 years in the army I have seen the effects of war and nature and have been proud to see the compashion and carring of America as we pour or hearts out helping any and all in this world both friend and foe without asking for anything in return

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

John Doe, Seattle , Wash — Thu, 10 Jan 2008 02:47:14 GMT

Right on c.w.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Kay in MS — Thu, 10 Jan 2008 03:16:58 GMT

TO: Mark, Pittsburgh PA "This is a very sad story as it sounds so familiar as to what is occuring in our own country. I speak about what "Corporate America" is doing in every segiment of American. Thank you " ------------------
This is one the most absurd statements I've ever read. People in Kenya are dying while we in the U.S. are enjoying lives where the most pressing issues involve who's winning on American Idol. How could you even begin compare the two? Also keep in mind that the reason we have such easy lives is because we both work for and invest in "Corporate America".
(Sent Wednesday, January 09, 2008 10:04 AM)

I am not concerned in any way about American Idol; I am concerned about what is taking place here in the US. The writer who spoke about corporate America was right, and your statement was the absurd one. You are obviously naiive about today's US. There are people here who are homeless and others on the verge of being homeless and bankrupt. Thousands have no health insurance. The govn't wants to take away our retirement security while they give our tax dollars to other countries (excuse me--they borrow from Peter to give to Paul). With the help of corporate America, the current govn't is destroying our "easy" way of life. If you invest in corporations via the stock market or 401K, you are actually supporting big business. They will take your money and run when the market goes down, and you will have nothing. Why should we be grateful to corporations for paying wages which "may" last a week while the price of everything surges higher every day? Why should we be grateful that they are so greedy, seeking higher profits for CEOs, moving out of the country, taking jobs with them and/or outsourcing other jobs?

You speak of those dying in Africa--are you as concerned about our soldiers dying in Iraq while conglomerates rack up their profits? The US has given huge amounts of money and other assistance to Africa, and not one thing has changed for the better. It is time for our government to stop giving to other countries and start helping Americans here. Thank you!

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

newsnut houston texas — Thu, 10 Jan 2008 03:20:48 GMT

There is more killing here than in Iraq but the cause of murdering of its people is the same as everywhere. Greed, money and power.The blood of the innocent will not be overlooked by our maker.The boat we sail has not entered into the perfect storm.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

newsnut houston texas — Thu, 10 Jan 2008 03:24:10 GMT

We have not entered into the perfect storm yet.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

newsnut houston texas — Thu, 10 Jan 2008 03:26:10 GMT

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Chris Allan, Park Hill, OK — Thu, 10 Jan 2008 03:47:40 GMT

I had no idea that things like this are allowed to take place, at this day in age.In the early 80's ,I was a U.S Navy sailor, and was lucky enough to make port in Kenya,These were some of the nicest people I have ever had the honor of meeting,These were the real people, trying to make a living,like everyone else in the world.Yet again, this is tolerated.
It make's me sick that this administration has allowed this to happen, I am so disapointed with the Bush administration.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

georgie hoffman Columbus, Ohio — Thu, 10 Jan 2008 03:55:22 GMT

This is where besides Sudan,that Barak Obama will send U.S. taxes. Bush had his agenda, & Obama has his.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

jay ..houston tx — Thu, 10 Jan 2008 04:38:54 GMT

why the u.s should intervene ? are u serious ? has anybody seen who are kenya's neighbours ? have u forgotten kenya was bombed by osama bcoz of it's association with the u.s ?kenya is the only country holding up the whole of east africa before it implores towards the al-qaeda influece....and also one of the u.n headquaters is in kenya.. the international community uses it's port to feed the other waring countries...the u.s train some of their soldiers in kenya ...so i ask again do they need to intervene? hell yes........but it's a kenyan problem but until we realize it's between the rich and the poor then we have no hope.......but the international community has to intervene?

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Mohamud,St Louis,Mo — Thu, 10 Jan 2008 05:02:50 GMT

Thank you Mr Fletcher,for your excellent piece of the politicians in Kenya...as a somali born in kenyas mostly somali region and now an american,we have suffered enormous injustice under this president,thats why most of kenyas elected him out unfortunately he got drunk with power and wont let it go..many of our ethnic somali people in kenya are pawns for him to trade in the global war on terror and it seems these days all u have to do to get money from Uncle Sam is say so and so is AlQAIDA,many somalis born in kenya of citizens of the country have been deported either to ethiopia,somalia or guantanamo bay with no legal redress..Our hopes were with the opposition leader...i hope he continues with the pressure on this illegitimate government..no more injustices

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Marty CR Iowa — Thu, 10 Jan 2008 05:04:30 GMT

Send Obama over there, he phones Kenya, thats where his daddy came from, wonder what his relatives there are doing and which class they belong to? Bet it is the white shirt, dark suit class.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

zim chun — Thu, 10 Jan 2008 05:34:48 GMT

we all have problems, don't we?

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

TW,California — Thu, 10 Jan 2008 06:23:59 GMT

I have heard quite a lot of US bashing. "Take care of Africa." "We don't because there is no OIL in Africa." We as Americans have sent BILLIONs to Africa and it has done little. This bashing has greatly disturbed me. I value the US and the freedom it has given me to walk in safety, earn my wages, spend them as I see fit, and take care of whom I wish to take care of. I wish to take care of my own people, the children here that need adoptive parents, the homeless here need homes, the Katrina victims still need help. Angeline and Warimu have a point it is time for their people to stand and deliver. It is time for the US to bow out and let them grow. It is time for the US to back out of a lot of nations we now support and let them grow on their own--NO MORE LOANS--NO MORE FREE MONEY--NO MORE AID--DON'T ASK FOR OUR MILITARY TO SAVE YOU WE ARE DONE.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

TW,California — Thu, 10 Jan 2008 06:30:47 GMT

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Rev. Dewey Leon Everts Jr. Santa Barbara CA — Thu, 10 Jan 2008 07:04:12 GMT

Why should anyone be surprized about Kenya. Those guys in the starched white shirts, suits, and shiny black shoes are just good politicians. As well they should be. They learned how to be politicians from England and America. We just keep it quiet.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Cori Williams, Nashville, TN — Thu, 10 Jan 2008 09:20:16 GMT

GOD bless Kenya and its people.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Jonathan La Salle, Marlborough Ma — Thu, 10 Jan 2008 13:07:34 GMT

"AFRIKA"

The continent of eternal unrest! Wars over power, Wars over land, Wars over religion and the consequences over bad choices.

The solution is diplomatic advice, however the US should stay out of the equation. This matter is an internal matter and should be resolved internally. The US cannot be everyone's savior when in crisis.

To the people of Afrika- Organize and then arise leading by example with constitutions and enforcement of that constitution to become productive with equallity to all without discrimination...

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Norman Mwaura, Baltimore, MD — Thu, 10 Jan 2008 13:17:50 GMT

The issues at hand cannot be boiled down so simply to two tribes fighting each other. Kenya has been is a young democracy that is barely 50 years old, and as with many colonial countrys its formation was far from an ideal situation. Kenya has only a tiny fraction of the resources that even a state like Maryland has - and Baltimoreans know that Baltimore is not exactly a crime-free utopia.

The point is as unacceptable as the situation is in Kenya, it is part of the painful process of a nation's development. And there is always a danger that things would turn out the way they have. The good thing is Kenyans are resilient and slow to take up arms. Things are already getting back to normal for the majority of the country. Although we watched pensively through the developments, we always knew Kenya was in no danger of falling into a state of arnachy.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Nairobi, Kenya — Thu, 10 Jan 2008 13:52:21 GMT

You have a warped perception of what Africa/Kenya is, I'm sorry Martin but somehow your story sounds a bit fabricated.... Kenya's a wonderful place what's happening is sorry because of opposition politicians mudslinging a government with propaganda put in place by it's people... Mr. Kibaki's a good man in many ways. The international press (like yourself) haven't made it better for the need to put across a good story, Kenyans can get themselves out of this, your pity is inconsequential...

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Savade Lodi — Thu, 10 Jan 2008 14:28:28 GMT

All misguided people desparately need an education in this regard:that neither Kibaki nor Odinga are worthy dying for. These are men out there to feed their egos and lord it over them.

Angry Kenyan: ‘We are dying for nothing’

Shiro, Des Moines, Iowa — Thu, 10 Jan 2008 14:41:19 GMT

Did you know that members of Parliament, senior judges, permanent secretaries, and Cabinet ministers in Kenya today earn more than $6,500 a month.

This is the source of the greed that is well painted in this article.

Martin, Great Job on the article!