Let voices of Kenyans be heard, leaders told
Many Kenyans are unhappy with politicians for hijacking the BBI report implementation process as the initiative continue to elicit mixed reactions.
In Siaya county, religious leaders accused politicians of hijacking the process and faulted Friday’s meeting in Kisii, which they said did not give residents a chance to air their views on the report.
Led by Bishop Kizito Tamre of the True God’s Blessing Church, the clerics lamented that contrary to President Uhuru Kenyatta and ODM leader Raila Odinga’s directive that the report be deliberated on by the people, politicians are just “rubber-stamping” it with the input of Kenyans.
Bishop Kizito said views by religious groups were not properly represented in the Kisii meeting.
But Kenya Union of Teachers secretary general Wilson Sossion and Mombasa Governor Hassan Joho threw their weight behind the report, saying it adequately addresses issues ailing the country.
Sossion said teachers were comfortable with the report and called for a referendum on it.
Historical injustices
Joho said the initiative would enable minority and marginalised communities to be represented in leadership. But a section of leaders from Kwale opposed calls for a referendum.
“While the report is welcome in its face value, we are of the opinion that the ongoing campaign to push for referendum will disadvantage a majority of residents who have endured decades of poverty and historical land injustices,” the leaders said in a statement read by Kinango MP Benjamin Tayari.
They termed the push for referendum as a mere wastage of resources that could be used to alleviate suffering among Kenyans. Tayari also said also said the report must incorporate views of Kenyans, noting that Kwale people have issues that they want the report to address.
Meanwhile, Ugunja MP Opiyo Wandayi has urged conveners of Saturday BBI meeting at Bukhungu Stadium in Kakamega to ensure views of Kenyans are given prominence. - Reporting by Eric Juma, Reuben Mwambingu, Emmanuel Masha and Evans Nyakundi
