The words of the Greek father of tragedy, Aeschylus, “It is not the oath that makes us believe the man, but the man the oath,” should always ring in mind and stir the conscience of any oath-taker.
In every civilized society, oaths are solemn commitments to build trust. They are the thread that weaves people’s hearts in any matter. Consequently, the only true measure of fidelity to the oaths is not the sweetness of the utterances but the conduct of the oath taker.
In Kenya, leaders have to take oaths upon assuming public office as required by law and democratic traditions. The standard line in the oath for a state officer is the affirmation to diligently discharge duties and serve people without fear, favour, affection, or ill will. These lines stand as the firm and stubborn rock by which a public officer is to be judged.
However, the purpose of these solemn words is often lost while enjoying the trappings of power and the attendant largesse of the office. Most of our leaders regard it as part of the rituals, a point of legal compliance, or the icing of the coronation exercise. This derailment from the true meaning of the oath is apparent from how leadership responsibilities are executed. Such a mindset leads to dereliction of the purpose and the ultimate demise of the realization of public good.
Responsibilities of leadership
The oath should remain a constant reminder of the heavy responsibilities coming with the office. For any responsible leader, the words in the oath should be their bond and a true reflection of how one exercises power. Part of the reminder is that: the authority in a public office is a public trust and should be exercised in a manner that demonstrates respect for the people, brings honour to the nation and dignity to the office, and promotes public confidence in the dignity of the office. It is further codified in law that the office is responsible for serving the people, not the power to rule them. Leaders must also make decisions based on objectivity and impartiality, devoid of any influence of nepotism, favouritism, and other improver motives.
A leader should also demonstrate selflessness to serve public interest, honesty in the execution of duties, and declare whenever their personal interests conflict with that of the public. Moreover, a leader is expected to be accountable to the public for all the decisions and should demonstrate commitment and discipline in service to mwananchi. These provisions of responsibilities of leadership are not wishful thoughts or mere suggestions but should serve as a guide in the execution of authority and a true reflection of the product of any leadership.
Fidelity to the Oath of Office
The oath, even in its basic expression, is a strong commitment of the leader to serve the people with integrity. It is a weighty duty in the eyes of God and the true disciples of integrity. Those endowed with reason and living conscience will feel the weight of these words. It is also true that people should not expect such strong commitments from a weak, incompetent, unethical leader. Unfortunately, it is not a surprise to witness individuals taking leadership as opportunities to exercise power and enjoy unfettered relations with the resources.
An ethical leader does not need a guide manual; strong personal values are the anchors of the commitment to leadership. For such individuals, the oath remains a solemn promise to be fulfilled. The daunting obligation coming with the oath of office shapes the utterances and conduct of such a leader. However, if a leader uses public office to illegally benefit themselves and associates; favour those from their tribe and clan over others; embezzle public resources; renege on their duties and forget about the promises; enrich self through the looting of public resources; how then can God so help such a leader in such blatant desecration of the very oath?
The writer is a lawyer and governance policy analyst
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