Kenyan churches seek inclusion of Constitutional studies in school curricula

Senior members of NCCK at a past press briefing. [File, Standard]

The National Council of Churches in Kenya (NCCK) has proposed the introduction of Constitutional education schools' curricula.

NCCK made the proposal while making its presentation to the National Dialogue Committee at the Bomas of Kenya.

However, the religious body opposed the suggestion to amend the constitution and instead, recommended the introduction of measures and policies to address the issues raised.

In its submission, the body has also proposed a review of Finance Bill, 2023 as well as a forensic audit of the national debt to ensure Kenya pays back the legitimate debt.

They also want the government to prepare a comprehensive report detailing the measures taken to ensure the two-third gender rule is effectively implemented.

To promote national unity and inclusivity in public appointments, NCCK suggests that appointing authorities should ensure ethnic balance and that Constitutional Commissions are accorded financial and operational freedom.

The churches have also called on the state to stop disregarding and disobeying Court Orders.

According to NCCK, the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) is crucial in the day-to-day activities of the country.

Therefore, the body has urged the committee to agree on how to pick the IEBC Commissioners' selection panel, to pave the way for timely delimitation of Boundaries scheduled for early next year.

In their presentation, NCCK also brought up the idea of establishing a Judicial Commission to audit the 2022 General Election, saying it is the best way to promote peace.

The consortium of churches has opposed the proposal to establish the National Government-Constituency Development Fund, National Government-Affirmative Fund, and Senate Oversight Fund, which are to be managed by the Lawmakers.

In their argument, NCCK says the bi-cameral parliament is not constitutionally allowed to manage any funds and, therefore, wants the Fund scrapped, for contravening the Constitution.