Any country contemplating leaving the East African Community (EAC) would do well to think twice before making such a move. Granted, it is not a perfect co-operation pact but admittedly it remains one of the most advanced intergovernmental partnerships on the continent.
During the recently concluded Summit, the former Chair, President William Ruto of Kenya, threw the doors open for those who wished to leave the Community. Now, that is hardly typical diplomatic language, which as a rule is usually wrapped in sedate phrasing such as “the meeting was held in a cordial and warm atmosphere”, even when it was actually simmering beneath the surface.
So yes, President Ruto gave us a hint. There are members of the EAC who may be considering quitting. Surely, they all know which side of the wall has the door and they could indeed walk out. However, seeking re-entry at some future date would not be a walk in the park. Some diehards might even swear, “over our dead bodies.”
No one needs reminding that there is strength in unity, just as it is equally true that no one goes far walking alone. These are universal truths. No one chooses a neighbour, just as we do not choose our parents. And neither do parents choose their children. We know that some countries harbour grievances against fellow member states and their frustration may well be understandable.
But joining the EAC, for example, is no panacea that will solve a country’s problems overnight. Diplomacy is often a painstaking and tedious path. What is certain, however, is that it ultimately delivers results. In any case, the EAC is a forum for brothers and sisters to speak openly and candidly to one another. It is not an indaba from which to run away.
Rumours have long swirled that some of the EAC’s newer entrants have mulled leaving the bloc. They can do so but they cannot ignore geography and cultural ties. A landlocked country will remain landlocked even if it leaves one bloc to join another.
The drafters of the EAC Treaty had grand ambitions, including the ultimate goal of political federation. Perhaps this was somewhat over-ambitious but the idea of political integration has never been abandoned. Even a confederation, which is now more widely discussed, would represent a significant leap forward if realised.
In conclusion, I would strongly urge our brothers and sisters who may be contemplating departure to work from within first to have their concerns addressed. It is easier to effect change from inside than from the sidelines.
