Translated into English by Shimba Theological Institute
Written by Dr. Maxwell Shimba, Director of Shimba Theological Institute
There has been a popular memo claiming that the youth have been “influenced” by people living outside the country. This means the authorities themselves admit that the youth were not forced, dragged, threatened, or bribed—rather, they were persuaded through reasoning. I am therefore compelled to persuade our leaders to also use persuasion when engaging the youth, for the following reasons:
1. Demonstrating is a constitutional right.
The government should not use force to violate the Constitution. It should use persuasion. Let us persuade the youth to postpone their constitutional right—not threaten them.
2. Before October 29, we relied on threats to stop demonstrations.
Threats did not work. The “doctor” who deceived us that intimidation would be effective is the one who is unfit. We should stop trusting him.
3. Ministers and leaders have scattered across the country
They are speaking with different groups and attempting to persuade them. But the police and rulers who continue using harsh, authoritarian language are discouraging the efforts.
4. Before October 29, we kept singing the song of PEACE
We refused to hear anything about JUSTICE. Unfortunately, the “peace” song was not loved and did not pay off. Those who continue singing it are wasting time and fueling anger.
We have seen the fruits of that approach. Now sing to the people the song of JUSTICE, even if only to give them hope.
5. We signed the Convention on the Rights of the Child
One of the greatest rights of children is TO BE HEARD. As a result of this convention, parents, teachers, police, temples, and all governments now fear children. Children are FEARED, but they DO NOT FEAR.
If they sympathize with you, they would rather drink poison than obey your authoritarianism. Parents know what I am talking about. If you cannot control the children in your own home, how will you control those in the streets?
No comments:
Post a Comment