Lack of civic education blamed for violence in push for referendum

Lack of civic education prior to advocating for referendum push by proponents has been blamed for confusion among the electorates and violence that marred a URP meeting in Nandi.

A council of elders said that there is need for civic education to enable citizens make informed choices on issues related to referendum push by political leaders.

Myoot council of elders and the Eldoret Anglican Church at the same time condemn Monday's political fracas in Nandi, where a top county official, Timon Kosgei was critically injured and airlifted for specialised medication in Nairobi.

John Seii, the chairman emeritus Myoot council of elders said civic education will enlighten the electorates on referendum issues.

"The issue of 'pesa' is sensitive and when leaders talk of pesa mashinani, people might take it literally and might cause confusion.

The chairman who spoke to The Standard on telephone Wednesday said leaders should thrive to pass the message well on how money will come to the grassroots to avoid confusing the masses who might literally misinterpret ‘pesa mashinani’ push.

Dr Christopher Ruto, Eldoret Diocese Anglican Church Bishop condemned violence in political events and urged electorates to tolerate and respect other people's opinions and the political positions they take.

"There is freedom of assembly as enshrined under the Bill of rights in our constitution. This freedom covers both the pro-referendum and anti-referendum supporters to showcase their views on the matter and all should be respected for the stand they take," said Ruto.