MP calls on Kenyans to ignore pro-referendum leaders

By Renson Buluma

NAIROBI, KENYA: Nambale legislator John Bunyasi has asked Kenyans to ignore a section of leaders that are calling for a referendum and instead support the Jubilee government to deliver the pledges made to the people.

Mr Bunyasi said the country cannot afford the burden of a referendum a few months after a general election that was largely peaceful and credible just to serve the individual interest of a few politicians.

He said calls for the amendment on the constitution should only come after it has been proved beyond reasonable doubts that the constitution as it is has failed to address the needs of Kenyans.

"For now, it is premature to call for referendum which may turn out to be a contest between political parties and not for the benefit of the country," said Bunyasi.

He made the remarks at Segero Secondary School during an inspection tour of CDF sponsored projects in his Nambale constituency.

He urged Kenyans to read and understand the constitution first and agree on certain issues before they embark on the referendum.

 “We are not the only ones who own Kenya, we have a future generation which is depending on us to make right decisions,” he said

He also took issue with some CORD leaders whom he accused of not being honest with Kenyans arguing that some of them had campaigned for the supreme law in 2010 and asked Kenyans to pass it the way it is.

“It is not wise that if you disagree on certain issues then you disregard the whole thing and call for change," stated Bunyasi.

Mr Bunyasi said the time of politics was over and leaders should concentrate on serving Kenyans not fighting for political supremacy battles.

His sentiments however contrast those of his Funyula counterpart Paul Otuoma and Busia Governor Sospeter Ojaamong who are rooting for a referendum which they noted will allow for amendment of contentious issues in the constitution.