Generational tension and democratic transformation in Meja Mwangi's ''The big chiefs''

Abstract

We recognize the fact that due to globalization and technological advancement new sources of knowledge have come to the fore. It should be remembered that the young are relatively advantaged in accessing this new knowledge than the old. Therefore, the traditional belief that the old are the main source of truth and wisdom as reflected in many of our traditional and current myths may no longer be the only truth. In Africa, democratic transformation and politics of transition are characterized by reluctance of the old to relinquish power peacefully something that has stirred the young into violence. Meja Mwangi in The Big Chiefs handles this important concept and roots that age remains a potent variable in democratic processes in Africa. This study analyzes generational tension between the young and the old and how it relates to democratic transformation and politics of transition. It also examines the artistic strategies employed by the writer to bring out his vision on democratic transformation in post-colonial Africa. The hypothesis guiding this study is that an analysis of generational tension and how it affects democratic transformation is critical to our understanding of Meja Mwangi's vision in The Big Chiefs. Meja Mwangi uses unique stylistic devices to bring out his vision on the role of inter- generational dialogue in political reforms.