The Basics In Leadership

Whenever I am applying for jobs, I make it my duty to understand the basics which includes, my duties, as well as who I am supposed to report to. If I get called to an interview, and when going through job orientation (if hired), it is important for me to know my duties and responsibilities and more importantly the power I have. This ensures efficiency and effectiveness. Lack of the above leads to the kind of mess Kenya is in today.



Following the post election government that held the country hostage for several weeks and led to loss of precious lives, internal displacement and loss of property, the first two presidential candidates eventually reached an agreement that led to a return of a very unstable peaceful position in the country. However, the lack of clear descriptions of their responsibilities and powers, has led to the confusing situation that currently exists in the Kenyan Government. Following allegations of corruption, Kenya’s prime minister quickly dismissed two members of parliament, in what he claims to be disciplinary steps. The ministers, according to the vice president are to step aside until investigations prove them innocent.
The president on the other hand quickly responded by claiming that he was not consulted, and that the prime minister does not have the power to sack ministers. To which the prime minister again responded that he is aware that he does not have the power to sack, but he does have the power to discipline ministers, dismissal according to the prime minister is a disciplinary measure, and the debate of who has the power to do what continues.


I do not know whether you see the drift in this story. What is of concern to the leaders is who has the power to do what; the main problem which is corruption is sidelined. Such that the concern is now not about corrupt politicians who abuse offices for personal gains. It is amazing how simple things like clear and transparent job descriptions can lead to such levels of inefficiency. In this case, because the basics have not been established, the whole system is chaotic, and corruption thus persists. It is such loopholes that enable corruption in government. It all starts with the basics, and it is irritating that at this level, 47 years down the line, Kenya is still struggling with the basics. What happened to leadership as servant hood? This is the most basic principle in political leadership. In Kenya those in power debate on how best to maintain and own the power, as opposed to doing the best for those they claim to lead. To achieve the latter, clear description of responsibilities and power is required; the basics!