By Teddy Njoroge Kamau (PhD) in Kijabe
Aspirants for political offices presented their papers to the IEBC. It was a Television event where Kenyan news rooms entertained Kenyans who own TV sets with live drama of IEBC verification process.
Among those who went to present their credentials was Diaspora Senate Candidate from Atlanta, Teresia Wairimu Kairu. “Though I am suing them for neglegence and violation of my rights, I am still a candidate with the right to contest.” She told the news reporters with her.
Although millions of Kenyans who live in the diaspora will be denied their constitutional right to vote, at least those Kenyans in North America can proudly say they have one of their own running. “My hope is that the diaspora will follow my example, and that of the other Diaspora Candidates running and get involved in changing our country.” She told the writer. “I am very happy with the diaspora, especially those in North America. They have supported me, gone to my page on face book, and told me how proud they are that I am running. I want to thank them as I enter into the next phase, which is harder.”
After running against chaotic and corrupt process of nominations, she is reflective. “I decided to run a clean election no matter what. I do not have the money my opponents have. But what I have I know its clean. I am proud of that.” She said proudly.
Following Terry’s story is fascinating. She runs with the rest but keeps her faith alive. “We sit together in Atlanta, Boston, London, DC, Sydney, and pray that God will change our country and help our people. May be we also need to be like Isaiah and answer, “here I am Lord”.” she says confidently. “I am asking those in the Diaspora to go to my website
www.terrykairuforkiambu.com. I am in need of their prayers. Also, those in North America know that it takes one dollar plus many to run a successful campaign. I need their support.”
She has also called on the diaspora who have family members registered in Kiambu to inform them of her need to capture the election as the first Female Kiambu Senator on the 4th of March 2013.
Teddy Njoroge Kamau (PhD), SYR Radio/TV, Director International Desk. Diaspora Messenger Contributor.
