REFLECTION: A NEW BRAVE WORLD

By Rev. Dr. Giuseppe Caramazza, MCCJ
DVC – Tangaza University College

In the past weeks, many have said that after coronavirus nothing will be the same. If the trend in China and Europe is valid for Kenya also, then it is clear that life will change. From the number of people allowed on a plane to the social distancing required in public, from the cost of living to the loss of jobs, much of our past life will have to adjust to a new style. However, is it true that these changes will also introduce a new social order, one more open to the needs of the poorest?

In the past weeks we rediscover the power of simple communication. We have been forced to live in closer contact with people, to have an ‘enhanced’ family life. We realized the importance of values like social exchange, true friendship, talking and listening. We might even have realized the power of silence, the importance of reading …. And yet, will all these remain valid once our lives will back on old tracks?

The coronavirus pandemic raises questions about globalization, health coverage for all, mutual respect between countries. It also raises questions about social injustice. How many people in the slums of Nairobi, indeed of everywhere in Kenya, were adequately protected from the virus? So far, the number of the pandemic are low, certainly nothing to compare with Europe, but what will we do if the infection gets the upper hand?

These are not simple questions, and they require reflection and time. As Catholic legislators, CAMPSSI members cannot avoid to ask these questions to themselves. If we are to make transformative decisions, choices that will change society in favour of the less fortunate and for the greater good of the country, then a time of reflection must go towards these questions. While we see people endeavouring to profit from this emergency, let us profit by preparing to design a better society for the future.