It's our duty to implement new laws, Kibaki tells MPs

By Ngumbao Kithi

President Kibaki skipped lunch break to conclude the two-day retreat with only a few ministers and their assistants in attendance.

Kibaki said the country was in a transitional period that would bring changes in governance.

"We are leaving here renewed in our vigour to entrench the national values, principles, and integrity code enshrined in the new Constitution," he said.

Kibaki said Kenyans were willing to let go of the order that was ended by the new constitution and embrace the new order.

"It is our duty as leaders to fulfil this obligation. More importantly, as we leave, we must similarly spend time with wananchi, so they too can understand the forthcoming fundamental changes," he said.

Prime Minister Raila Odinga, who left early to travel outside the country, said the purpose of the retreat was to ensure the three arms of Government — the Legislature, the Executive and Parliament — worked together.

Raila said the differences that emerged during the meeting were resolved.

"We discussed the most important structures and each one of us is satisfied with our roles," he said.

Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka, who read the communiquÈ, tabled 17 resolutions passed during the retreat.

Top among them was that public officers, ministers, assistant ministers, Members of Parliament, permanent secretaries and all civil servants comply with integrity and ethical values as outlined in the new Constitution.

They also resolved to uphold the rule that prohibits public officers from presiding over harambees.

The Vice-President said the retreat resolved to increase the frequency of meetings of ministers, assistant ministers, permanent secretary and heads of departments.

The other resolution was that Cabinet ministers and assistant ministers shall abide by principles of collective responsibility.

Kalonzo said the meeting agreed Cabinet ministers and assistant ministers would abide by the oath of secrecy and keep Government secrets.

The meeting resolved to intensify and sustain the fight against corruption at all levels of Government.

He said the three arms of Government would collectively and individually implement the provisions of the Constitution.

"The Government will urgently develop a law to guide MPs in the vetting of state officers," he said.

He said the Government would fast track the development of policies and laws to expedite the implementation of the new Constitution.

Kalonzo said the retreat agreed to ensure there is a harmonious working relationship between the Executive, Judiciary and Legislature.

The retreat agreed to harmonise schedules of accountability to expedite the implementation of the new Constitution in respective ministries and departments.

Kalonzo said the ministers and assistant ministers must develop laws that govern management of public finances .

Another resolution was regular meetings, in addition to Cabinet meetings, chaired by President Kibaki to consult and monitor the implementation of the new Constitution and discuss emerging issues.

To hold regular consultative meetings between the Executive and the Legislature to harmonise working relationship and improve efficiency.