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We Kenyans have become accomplished critics of the State. We condemn corruption, lament failing services and demand accountability. Yet we sometimes seek personal connections when procedures inconvenience us, excuse wrongdoing when it benefits our community or political side, and remain silent when institutions to which we belong violate the standards we demand from government.
This is not to distribute responsibility equally.
Public officials exercise legal authority, control public resources and command the coercive power of the State. Their obligation is therefore greater. But Kenya cannot renew its institutions while citizens and the institutions of society remain spectators.
Our Constitution begins from a different premise. Sovereign power belongs to the people, and every person has an obligation to respect, uphold and defend the Constitution. Citizenship is therefore more than voting, paying taxes, posting criticism or joining demonstrations. These matter, but sovereignty must also be organised.
