Envoys laud committee for a job well done

By Isaiah Lucheli

Two envoys welcomed the draft constitution terming it a reflection of the wishes of Kenyans.

US ambassador Michael Ranneberger and his UK counterpart Bob Macaire said the draft had a general desire from Kenyans and urged President Kibaki and Prime Minister Raila Odinga to rally Kenyans behind it.

"The document is perfect and deserves support by the leadership," said Ranneberger.

The US Envoy said it was the wish of the Obama administration that Kenyans have a constitution under the campaign spearheaded by the Committee of Experts (CoE).

Macaire said he too expected the political class to ensure the adoption of the draft.

He said he was optimistic the CoE had consulted Kenyans leading to the draft released on Wednesday.

Without intimidation

The two envoys who spoke separately, said they expected Kenyans to debate the clauses freely without influence or intimidation from the political class.

Ranneberger said the CoE had done a professional work. He said it was a challenge to the two Principals and the Vice-President to unite Kenyans in seeking a common ground to the contentious issues.

Assistant Minister Mwangi Kiunjuri welcomed the draft saying it will be a basis on which Kenyans can negotiate what they want.

Cabinet Minister Mutula Kilonzo said political leaders should desist from debating the draft at funerals but at right forums.

The Constitutional Affairs Minister said the document was workable and cautioned fellow leaders against inciting Kenyans against it.

" I urge the politicians and stakeholders to desist from making inflammatory remarks that might threaten the adoption of the draft," he said.

Read draft

Macaire said the international community would not interfere in the constitution making process following the release of the harmonised draft by the CoE.

He said it was up to Kenyans to read the draft make corrections, and come up with a favourable constitution. Mr Macaire, however, told politicians not to push for their personal agenda during the process.

And the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has expressed concern that politicians can make or break the harmonised draft constitution.

LSK council member Evans Monari said competition among political parties and vested interests were the major hurdles to the new law.

He called on Kenyans to rise above the era of manipulation by reading the draft and making informed decisions.

 

 

Read all about: referendum new constitution Committee of Experts CoE Michael Ranneberger Bob Macaire

 

 

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