Four big reasons why Okoa Kenya is unnecessary

The bulletin following the nullification of the Okoa Kenya referendum was received by Kenyans with mixed reactions.

Many Kenyans were satisfied with decision by the IEBC to reject some of the signatures presented by CORD. Apart from the fact that the signatures did not satisfy the constitutional requirements, there are more reasons to celebrate the decision.

Firstly, a referendum at this point as we approach the 2017 elections would cause political tension all over the country. Kenyans clearly know that this referendum was being used as a litmus test in preparation for the 2017 general elections.

The referendum according to CORD was perfectly timed just as the one in 2005 where Banana and Orange were being used in preparation for the 2007 general elections. CORD wanted to gauge their strength. But is this the right way of doing things?

Secondly, Kenyans will be saved billions of shillings if the referendum will not take place (which surely will not). The taxpayers will be saved approximately Sh10 billion following the withdrawal of the referendum.

The amount which was to be included in the supplementary budget could as well be diverted into other more important sectors. The money could be used to equip our hospitals or given to the youth to help curb unemployment. Kenyans will have value for their money if the referendum will not occur.

Thirdly, it is alleged that Mpesa agents were paid Sh5, 000 for each record book used to collect signatures. Some of the signatures collected were either of dead people, unregistered voters or non-functional Safaricom lines.

This is the biggest scam I have ever seen since the serpent deceived Adam and Eve. The EACC should step in and investigate this matter.

Lastly, most of the issues CORD are seeking to iron out could be resolved in either parliament or the court without necessarily going for a referendum. CORD should stop the OKOA Kenya referendum push and concentrate on better ways to prepare for the 2017 general elections. The referendum was ill-timed!