Prof. Patrick Loch Otieno Lumumba commonly known as PLO Lumumba is a reputable Kenyan lawyer, public speaker and academic known in Africa and beyond for his powerful oratory and advocacy for good governance, anti-corruption measures, and Pan-Africanism.
He has demonstrated over the years his expertise in law and is fondly esteemed for his passionate speeches advocating for good governance and dedication to making a positive impact on the African continent.
Videos of his speeches make rounds on all social media platforms and his commanding voice graces conferences with unmistakable wisdom, chilling truth and an unapologetic nudge to action.
On 23rd of March 2001 PLO made one of the most exceptional statements, “the country is bigger than individuals and must always be given its pride of place.” He said this following a merger deal between Ufungamano teams – the religious fraternity – and the Parliamentary Select Committee that saw the two teams agree on contentious issues and pave way for a constitutional reform.
PLO was reminding the actors in play and wananchi that they must be able to rise above divisions and do what is best for the country and not yield into the self-fulfilling interests of certain individuals or sections of the society.
Over a decade later, his words still echo in a clarion call for all of us to protect our democracy, uphold patriotism, and protect the integrity of our country as a home for over fifty million Kenyans and not a few individuals.