Referendum not for politicians alone, says cleric

The Methodist Church in Kenya has asked politicians to consult all stakeholders over the referendum bid.

Presiding Bishop Joseph Ntombura said for the interest of peace, healing and reconciliation, the Jubilee Government and the Opposition should bear in mind that the Constitution does not belong to the political elite only.

Rev Ntombura said that in 2010, Kenyans agreed that there were provisions in the draft Constitution that should have been amended before it was voted on, but politicians, the civil society and foreign missions called for it to be passed and changes effected later.

"We are concerned that a matter of such great national importance has been reduced to a popularity contest between political parties," he said at a press conference in Nairobi.

He said the church proposed that the Government enact a law through Parliament to create a people-driven process for constitutional amendments.

Ntombura said there is need for a referendum and the Government will give in when the time is right, adding that all Kenyans must be involved in the process because it is their right.

"When the call for a referendum gains momentum, the Government has to give in. The Government has to see and reason with the citizens when the right time comes," he said.

He asked governors to remain accountable and curb corruption.