Mon, 4 Feb 2008 05:00:51 -0800 (PST)



Dear fellow Kenyans,

The fighting between the Kisiis and Kalenjins/Kipsigis has reminded me of a story that I once read. Then, it did not make sense as it does now.

It was a story about animals. The monkey and tortoise were very good friends for many years. They lived together peacefully. They used to call each other and were always there for each other.

However, there was one who was not happy with their friendship-the Hare, and therefore devised a way to bring the friendship to an end.

One day the monkey was in need of help and called on tortoise for help. The tortoise answered in a very rude manner stating that he was no longer interested with their friendship. At about the same time,the tortoise called for help and the monkey answered in a very rude way.In this way,their friendship came to an end.

Many days later, they happened to meet and wondered what exactly had transpired. Each one was blaming the other for being rude,a charge that each denied. After investigation, it was found out that the Hare had come in between and spoiled the relationship between the monkey and tortoise. They renewed their friendship and lived happily together their after.

As I said,this was a story that I read long time ago. Now that I think about it, it really applies here. How?

• The Kalenjins/Kipsigis have been good neighbors with the Kisii for a good number of years.
• Whoever Killed Honorable Too, and for whatever reasons, has indeed managed to cause untold discord between the two communities.
• There is a need to understand that the Kisiis as a community had nothing to do with the death of the law maker.
• There is a need to stop this uncalled for aggression.

Let us continue to pray for peace as that will be the only way forward.

My heart and prayers are with all Kenyans. Blessings to each one of you.

        - Pr Birai