President Barack Obama's inaugural speech carried stinging pointers to corruption that could have given Kenya's coalition government discomfort at a time when it is reeling from several scandals.
Obama's inauguration, significant to Kenya because of his ancestry that is traced to K'Ogelo village in Siaya District, had unflattering words to any government that dabbles in corrupt activity.
"To those who cling to power through corruption and deceit and the silencing of dissent, know that you are on the wrong side of history; but that we will extend a hand if you are willing to unclench your fist."
Scandalous events unfolding around various government departments in the past few weeks have put the government on the spot for what is seen as condoning corruption in its coalition ranks.
The mention of corruption and deceit,' came coincidentally after Parliament was allowed by the Speaker to set aside one hour to congratulate Obama, but the motion turned into censure for Government for turning a blind eye to corruption.
"I am not ready to be called a thief and lumped up with these individuals that's is why I will start naming them if Parliament does not," said Minister James Orengo as he turned the congratulation debate into talk about the latest corruption scandals that have rocked the country.
Justice Minister Martha Karua wondered why certain individuals wanted to enrich themselves through the maize scandal yet they were being paid well as MPs. She also referred to the oil scandal.
But Obama had a message of hope for poor nations.
"To the people of poor nations, we pledge to work alongside you to make your farms flourish and let clean waters flow; to nourish starved bodies and feed hungry minds. And to those nations like ours that enjoy relative plenty, we say we can no longer afford indifference to suffering outside our borders; nor can we consume the world's resources without regard to effect. For the world has changed, and we must change with it," he said
Earlier in his speech, Obama had drawn glowing reference to Kenya's K'Ogelo village where his father is buried as he said that his policies would be felt everywhere.
"And so to all other peoples and governments who are watching today, from the grandest capitals to the small village where my father was born: Know that America is a friend of each nation and every man, woman and child who seeks a future of peace and dignity, and that we are ready to lead once more." He said amid applause. – Standard