The Cutting Edge

For the information of Okeda Abuoga, who wondered why traffic police always insist on towing accident vehicles even when they can be driven to the police station, George Kaburia says it’s a racket involving the officers. He adds: “The majority of the breakdown vehicles are owned by traffic officers. Every vehicle towed is charged Sh3,000. Officers who don’t own vehicles are paid Sh500 for bringing the business. Next time, insist on driving your vehicle and there is nothing they will do.”

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While battling it out for the presidency in the 2007 General Election, P. ole Mulli recalls that Mwai Kibaki, Raila Odinga and Kalonzo Musyoka had excellent manifestoes, promising Kenyans the best if elected. He poses: “Since the three of them are now in power, why can’t they implement those policies for the benefit of fellow Kenyans?’’

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The missing piece in the kadhi courts puzzle, says G. Dom, is that pollsters have not made any effort to establish what percentage of Muslims would like them retained in the new constitution. According to Dom, his unofficial survey indicates that 75 per cent of Muslim women don’t like the courts, and over 50 per cent of all Muslims do not think they are beneficial to them or even necessary. “Can a poll be done so we can have a fundamental basis for debate?” he appeals.

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KRA has noted Dr Iddi W. Abdalla’s complaint about being charged duty on a laptop gift from a friend. Senior deputy commissioner (marketing and communication) Kennedy Onyonyi says he should provide information on the point of clearance/entry to enable the KRA to establish the reasons for the tax. “However, new laptops are not dutiable except the payment of the Import Declaration Form fee at 2.25 per cent of the value of the item. If it’s more than three years old, Excise Duty is 25 per cent of the value.”

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With the rains pounding the city, residents of Kahawa Wendani are wondering what excuse Nairobi Water Company now has for its failure to ensure water flows in their taps. “We have reported to the technicians in the the area, but in vain. And two months later, the water firm’s official based at Pangani has yet to respond to our complaint, but our neighbours have plenty, some of which is being used for construction?” says JM.

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The behaviour of some members of the Visa Oshwal Sports Club at Parklands, Nairobi, is not sporting at all, moans Jane Murugi. For some time now, she says, the men have become notorious for making deafening noise as they go to take a bath, as early as 4am, ruining the last hours of sleep for other residents. “I reported to the city council but no action was taken. After I complained to management, a huge notice was put up but the noise continues,” says Jane. Her email is ndogoj@yahoo.com.

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By featuring Nation cartoonist Gado in its African Voices programme, CNN is underlining the need to honour individuals who have a great impact on the lives of others in their lifetime, says George Mwiti. He adds: “Unlike Whispers, who was feted after his death, the recognition of Gado as a great satirist makes Godfrey Mwampembwa a truly remarkable fellow.”

Have an admirable day, won’t you!

E-mail: watchman@nation.co.ke or write to Watchman, POB 49010, Nairobi 00100. Faxes 214531, 213846.