interesting. Similar to the variety and variability of specific oathing experiences,
the Mau Mau oath purification process was also a system of many parts. The
roles consisted of an administrator who served as a spiritual guide responsible
for conducting the ceremony, and of course, the participant. The true meaning
and interpretation of the process and the experience is dependent on many
factors. Although cleansing became a part of the post Mau Mau oath
experiences, some Mau Mau oathers did not participate in oath cleansing.78
These individuals fell into different categories: believers who felt that the kithitu
aspect of the oath could not be cleansed and those that preferred to turn to the
Christian church for purification activities. Present day thoughts on the topic
revealed the belief that those that took the Mau Mau oath did not need cleansing
because they did not do anything wrong.79 They were freedom fighters.80
Colonial Cleansing During the Mau Mau Period, 1952-1962
In efforts to regain control of what appeared uncontrollable, the colonial
government during the mid-1950s instituted a purification or “cleansing” policy as
a part of the colonial government Mau Mau rehabilitation program. This
government acknowledgement legalized and sanctioned oath cleansing.
According to Greet Kershaw, the government adhered to the position that it was
“strongly recommended that those guilty of oaths submit to a purification or
78 Interview, J.M. Wambua, January 2009, Machakos District, The Mau Mau oath could not be cleansed
and that they fought for freedom and therefore did not require cleansing. However, many accounts show
that the cleansing occurred although it is difficult to discern the numbers.
79 Viewing and discussion, The Emerald Initiative Kenyan Association, January 2010 of Wendo Wa
Kavete. Kibwezi District. “Purification Ritual Performance”. December 2008.
80 Viewing and discussion, The Emerald Initiative Kenyan Association, January 2010 of Wendo Wa
Kavete. Kibwezi District. “Purification Ritual Performance”. December 2008.
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