We must not fail Kenyans on reform, Kibaki tells Cabinet

By Alex Ndegwa

President Kibaki has reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to deliver a new constitution and challenged leaders to shun personal interests that undermine unity.

The President spoke at the close of Cabinet retreat, in Mombasa, to tame discord in Government. Ministers resolved there is need for Government to take a common position on the new constitution.

"I wish to re-affirm our Government’s commitment to implement the reform agenda. In particular we are fully committed to the delivery of a new constitution and development programmes under Vision 2030," Kibaki said.

Political elite

And addressing journalists later, Immigration Minister Otieno Kajwang’ said the political class should stop pushing for a constitution that only suits their agenda.

"We political elites seem to be looking for a constitution that serves our selfish interests. It is time we listen to what the people want," said Kajwang’.

The meeting also stressed a ‘one government one voice’ communication approach.

Also, Assistant ministers would be allocated specific functions in their ministries in addition to their parliamentary responsibilities, largely confined to answering questions.

Any differences involving ministers and their assistants will be resolved through internal mechanisms.

It was agreed the ministers and assistants will hold regular bonding meetings at least twice a year.

The President and Prime Minister were asked to form a conflict resolution mechanisms within the Coalition Government to resolve disputes. President Kibaki said the retreat had "bonded us" and "we have emerged stronger."

Sources told The Standard on Sunday Public Health Minister Beth Mugo frankly told the forum bonding sessions were pointless if ODM continued harping about the alleged ‘stolen victory’, which she added PNU viewed as insulting to the President.