Leaders should embrace the right values

The late Reuben Marambii who steered National Bank to a profitable firm before he retired was a humble man who engaged with his staff in a harmonious way.

Mr Marambii preferred using the lifts like other staff members and always objected to one being reserved for him.

Unlike Mr Marambii, most of our elected leaders have misplaced priorities. Our leaders have been seen demanding for new Toyota Prado's, mansions worth Sh50 million and entertainment allowance totalling Sh50 million.

These shocking display of extravagance leaves voters wondering what kind of service they should expect from their leaders.

However, for every county governor who moves into a hotel as he awaits purchase of a new mansion, there are other officials who will roll-out their sleeves, get to work without the cars, offices or mansions.

It is important to note that no one will think less of a governor if he does not fly first-class or lives and works in facilities that were previously availed to the mayor by a municipal council.

It is a personal choice, for one to insist that from the day they are sworn-in, they can only fly first-class, or live in a new house with three cars to drive around.

I also remember as a young boy, while I was in primary school, a father to one of my friends got a new government job.

We didn’t know about it until it was announced during one of the infamous lunch time news bulletins.

However, when we were ready to leave school and head home, a government vehicle was on standby to chauffeur my friend home. Surprised, my friend offered us a ride home in the huge car.

The privilege only happened once and his parents felt the need for him to resume walking to school.

Mr Bankelele commentates on socio-economic issues.