Kenya's President Questions Qualifications of Blind Professional
By Kay Schriner (kays@uark.edu)
In comments that have caused a "chorus of criticism," Kenyan President Moi raised concerns about the ability of a blind man who is among those leading the nation's constitutional review team.
The President, who spoke in Kiswahili, is quoted by The Nation as saying "Certain people are blind and yet you insist they should lead the constitutional review process. What message are you sending God? Here is a blind person offering guidance on constitutional matters. So much has been said but it will not distract me from seeking what is best for Kenyan youth."
Other members of the constitutional review team have expressed surprise and disappointment at the President's remarks, saying that the blind man, Dr. Oki Oooko Ombaka, is competent. Some say they would like to believe that the President was misquoted; others say they are dismayed by his comments.
Farah Maalim criticized the President, saying "That was the President invoking the name of God in vain. Dr. Ombaka is qualified for the job, and the President's words show his raw nature. No wonder the country is in a socio-political-economic morass."
Another commission member, Mwangi Githiomi said, "The President's comment shows why the disabled in this country have been relegated to the footnote of national concerns."
For more on this story, go to http://allafrica.com/stories/200109300042.html.
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