Raila pledges to implement constitution

By Caleb Mutua

Prime Minister Raila Odinga Thursday urged Kenyans to elect leaders that will prioritize the implementation of the new constitution.

The Orange Democratic Movement leader termed the 2010 constitution as the most significant achievement under his coalition with president Kibaki.

“To realize our aspirations and the promises that stand before us, we will need to elect a credible, focused and committed leadership that will implement the new constitution in letter and spirit,” said Mr Odinga during the 49th Jamhuri Day celebrations at the Nyayo Stadium..

He said that the new government will be required to adjust to the ideal of county government and as a way of ensuring equity and fairness in resource allocation.

Kenyans agreed on the devolution system of government by passing the new constitution which president Kibaki promulgated on August 27 2010.

Mr Odinga, is running for presidency under a pre-election coalition agreement with Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka and Ford Kenya leader Moses Wetangula.

Raila joined other leaders in urging Kenyans to regiser as voters in order to participate in the next general elections.

“Kenyans must register to vote because bad leaders are elected when citizens don’t register and turn out to vote,” he said.

President Kibaki also advised Kenyans to elect county and national leaders who are patriot and strong-minded as the country prepares to the ballot in three months’ time.

The president noted major strides the country had made since 2002 and called on all Kenyans to elect leaders who are dedicated to maintaining the current momentum of growth.

He requested Kenyans to register as voters before a week’s-time deadline to the nationwide exercise carried out by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission.

“Kenyans should therefore elect honest, visionary and hardworking leaders who have the concern of Kenyans at heart in the next general election,” said president Kibaki.

He reminded Kenyans that registering to vote will enable them carry out their civic duty of electing leaders of their choice and participate in strengthening our democracy.

On the thorny issue of security, the president reiterated that his government will not hesitate to deal decisively with terrorists or any criminal elements.

He said his government will not let a few individuals destruct the country from living peacefully and harmoniously.

“I would like to assure Kenyans that the government is fully committed to providing adequate security for our people visitors and their properties. The on-going reforms in the security sector will enhance the capacity of our security agents to provide swift and adequate services to our people,” he said.

First published in December 2013.