In 1900s, a famous Kikuyu prophet Mugo wa Kibiru prophesied that the fall of a giant Mugumo tree in Thika would symbolise the end of European rule in Kenya.
When the British Colonial government learnt of the prophesy, they built an iron ring around it to prevent it from falling.
In 1963 however, the tree split and fell in two stages. That same year, Kenya gained internal self government and Jomo Kenyatta became the founding father of the Republic of Kenya. The prophesy came to pass.
As we head to the historic general election, a strange thing has just happened in Nyeri's Giakanja Village. Following heavy rains pounding the area, a huge Mugumo tree believed to be 300 years old has fallen. The tree split into two, which elders believe to be symbolic and has sent a strong message to the Kenyans.
According to Kikuyu traditions, Mugumo trees are not supposed to be cut, and were used as venues during the performance of certain religious ceremonies, e.g. offering sacrifices and prayers.
When such trees fell due to natural occurrences, they were supposed to be left to rot. If such a tree was cut down, another one was to be planted on the same point, to avoid a curse befalling the Kikuyu community.
The falling of the tree in Nyeri has been interpreted prophetically. According to a villager who appeared to be privy with Kikuyu traditions, it is indeed pointed towards some occurrences in the upcoming elections.
The phenomenon of a Mugumo tree falling and splitting into two is known as'Ituika' in Kikuyu, and according to the elder, the incident symbolizes change of leadership on March 4th.
He said that if such an event happens, those currently in leadership positions, if they are old, leave power for the young.
So it means the next election will be won by a group of young men, since the split means a transition from old men rule to youth.
This phenomenon favours Jubilee Alliance since it is composed of young and ambitious leaders.
Jubilee Coalition is associated with Deputy Prime Minister Uhuru Kenyatta and Eldoret North MP William Ruto.
source:The Kenyan DAILY POST
