NCCK Calls For A National Dialogue On The Proposed BBI
The National Council of Churches of Kenya (NCCK) has called for a national dialogue. This is to ensure that Kenyans’ concerns on the BBI constitution review report are taken into account. Before a referendum is held. The BBI report was launched on Monday, October 26, at the Bomas of Kenya with its proposals sparking a debate across the country on the need for consensus.
Speaking during a press conference on Thursday, NCCK leaders led by Secretary General Canon Chris Kinyanjui said they appreciate some of the recommendations made. Such as the proposed increment of the County Revenue Allocation from 15 per cent to 35 per cent. And establishment of a Prime Minister’s position with two deputies.
“The Executive Committee calls to mind that the primary trigger for conflicts and violence has been elections, owing to systematic and structural weaknesses in the electoral process. In our analysis, we appreciate various recommendations in the BBI including establishment of the office of the leader of opposition,” Kinyanjui said.
He urged all Kenyans to read and understand the report and air their views as well as suggest amendments that they would want made.
“A comprehensive civic education should be undertaken to ensure all Kenyans are made aware of the contents and make informed choices,’’ Kinyanjui suggested.
However, the religious leaders pointed out that the BBI has not given provisions on how women issues will be addressed adding that removal of the Women Representative seat from the National Assembly will deny women a chance to be appointed as Cabinet Ministers who under the proposed changes will be picked from the House’s membership.
“It is for this reason that the Dialogue Reference Group of which the NCCK is a member, has consistently urged for various measures to inclusion,” Kinyajui said.
On Judiciary and National Police Service, the leaders want the institutions left to operate independently without the establishment of the Ombudsman and a council respectively, both chaired by an executive appointee.
