If we want to exercise the rights that are enshrined in the Constitution, then we also as leaders have a responsibility to also show our people how to exercise those rights; to also show our people, how to exercise them without infringing on other peoples’ rights. And if we were to do that, there would be perfect peace. And that is what happened, if you recall, as much as there was no destruction where the CORD leadership was, in the last demonstration where they arranged their people on their own, there was no problem. But at the same time, as much as there is no problem, as their supporters went home, you saw the destruction that was done on matatus in Huruma, you saw the destruction that was done to kiosk owners on their way home. All I am saying is, exercise your rights but please also, show your people, that this is not combative. You know, once we have finished our demonstration, let us disperse peacefully, and there will not be a problem, there will not be tension.
I would like to end this particular conversation with, freedom comes with responsibility. You want to exercise your freedom, but you must exercise that freedom also in a responsible manner. If we were to do that as Kenyans, we would have peace. Nobody is being denied their right to exercise those freedoms, but we are just saying that we must be responsible.
Question: Did you feel betrayed by Uganda’s decision to export its oil through Tanzania and not Kenya? Is our position as the regional ‘giant’ threatened?
President Kenyatta: I look at it differently. I don’t look as if there is any threat whatsoever. I am actually quite excited by the way that for the first time, we are starting to see major projects interconnecting the region actually happening. And I have always said that, my view of our region is a region not in competition with itself but complementing each other with a view of competing with the rest of the world. I do not see the central corridor as a threat to our northern corridor. I don’t see it as a threat at all.
I actually believe that at same stage, right, looking into the future, that will be the way that we will interconnect our total infrastructure and truly be able to link up our African continent, alright and start focusing on intra-African trade with us as the people focusing our efforts on areas where individuals you know, are stronger and
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