August 1 is a date that evokes bitter memories of the abortive coup by some low-ranking members of the Kenya Air Force against the government 44 years ago. It shook the nation and left in its wake death and destruction and a shattered reputation of what had been deemed as an example of political stability on the continent.
The insurrection against then-President Daniel arap Moi that lasted roughly six hours resulted in more than 200 deaths, massive looting, and destruction of property worth billions of shillings. It would later lead to the disbanding of the Air Force.
The country was on the brink of disaster as it risked being plunged into chaos, just 19 years after attaining independence. Unfortunately, this set the stage for the beginning of single-party autocratic rule as the Moi administration purged dissidents and tightened control.
Enhancement of democracy
There were some heroes, including the pilots who duped the rebels and refused to bomb vital installations, including State House, instead dropping the bombs in Mt Kenya Forest. The coup also ruined the careers of some airmen, who are to this day still fighting for justice after being unfairly arrested, tortured and jailed.
However, the restoration of law and order and enhancement of democracy, where elections have been held every five years without fail to allow the people to freely choose their leaders, are commendable. The lessons from the pain and desolation of 44 years ago are crucial as our country has firmly proven that leadership can be changed without the military having to seize power.
Even the 2007 post-election violence, in which more than 1,300 people perished, and several hundred thousand were evicted from their homes and farms, was a challenge that was effectively dealt with.
The military should always remain in the barracks, as ours is a constitutional democracy where the vote, and not force, counts.