Buzz on the WebKenya Gets a Democratic Upgrade!

Democratic Update for Kenya is On the Way!You know how some folks are always vocal about our democratic rights and Constitutional freedoms being” taken from us by our government”. Well, in some places around the world, the government is actually doing the opposite!

For example, I stumbled upon a series of articles highlighting the national referendum in Kenya which was to decide whether the citizens should accept a new Constitution. Kenya, like many other countries on the African continent, is far from democratic. With its crime levels and corruption, it struggles to achieve a decent level of stability.

That is why the new, updated Kenyan Constitution was crafted to overhaul the way the country is governed. It may have a wider impact in the whole region. It is considered to be a progressive document, for the most part (although it has been criticized both for giving special preference to Islamic law, and, on the other hand, for allowing any abortion at all).

Its draft was released for public comment almost a year ago – a feedback process which was lively. The nation voted for acceptance was on August 4; en masse. Over 60% of the voters said “yes” to this new supreme document of the country.

What distinguishes the new constitution is the clarification of the division of power amongst branches and levels of government. Kenya shows us a cheering example of human progress, or at least an attempt at creating it. Although the African region faces innumerable problems, at least one country is taking a constructive step to shape their future and that of their children.

Let’s just hope that the document will be final and that the beneficial parts will not be changed any further. We see, too often, that constitutions are gutted based on the economic and political goals of the ruling party/class.

I personally wish the people of Kenya prosperity and a bright future! Let your Constitution stay intact, just as the American one has, for the most part. A stable and balanced government will be a breakthrough for all of you, permitting a better life for all citizens!

Good Luck to you all, and have a great day!

2 Comments

  • Simon
    September 2nd, 2010 at 1:52 pm

    I am amazed that that the new constitutional dispensation in Kenya may usher in a new democratic era. Indeed, the main task remains on the shoulders of the country’s parliament which is supposed to enact close to 50 bills into law to allow the implementation of the document. Thanks so much for bringing this into highlight!

  • September 3rd, 2010 at 6:05 am

    We are glad that the topic is interesting for our readers!

Add Comment

Name:*

E-Mail:*

Comment:*