Many Kenyans are keen as the call for the referendum continues to fill the air . Different politicians are joining the band wagon in pushing for the calls of a referendum.
The call for constitutional amendment was first started by the former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. This happens after they settled their political difference with President Uhuru Kenyatta through a handshake.
Mr. Odinga started pushing for the constitutional amendment during the council of governors meting in Kakamega where he was invited to talk on the matters of devolution. Raila insisted on changing the current system and adopting a three tier type of governance.
According to Raila , the country adopting this type of governance will help reduce the burden which is currently hitting the normal mwananchi.
The Deputy President joined the team despite his earlier claim which were viewed contrary to this agenda of a constitutional reform. The deputy president joined , but with conditions that he will only support the push if it has the interest of the normal citizen and not aimed to create other leadership positions. The sentiments received numerous criticisms from the opposition which is in the forefront in spearheading this agenda for change.
Other leaders have also expressed their support. Amani Congress party leader , Musalia Mudavadi is also pushing the agenda for constitutional reform. The leader has been so much vibrant on the this issue of reforms in the country.
Kalonzo Musyoka the former vice president also showed his support for the agenda of constitutional amendment but has not been active in mobilizing Kenya to support this idea.
I think the idea of performing referendum is a no good idea to kenyans since the constitution is still new to us #Referendumdebate
— Lucky Opondo (@LuckyOpondo) October 8, 2018
Different governors have joined this movement , Mwangi wa Iria of Murang’a having a different idea on the basis of a referendum. Wa Iria has said the call for a referendum should majorly focus on how different counties will share their natural resources. This comes after a recent water saga between him and governor Mike Sonko of Nairobi. Wa Iria wants the county of Nairobi to pay for continued water supply to the capital city.
Governor S0nko claimed that the county government of Nairobi owns the title deed of Ndakaini Dam. This prompted exchange of words between the two where governor of Nairobi threatened to demolish Wa Iria buildings which are built on the road reserves. President Uhuru Kenyatta commented on the issue saying they should leave politics out of natural resources which are meant to be shared.
Also the governor of Kakamega Wycliffe Oparanya have supported the push for a referendum saying it will reduce the burdens of Kenyans and even the wage bill. His sentiments have been echoed with other local leaders from that region.
Political leaders differ on issues surrounding referendum #ReferendumDebate https://t.co/BozBTIN0nZ pic.twitter.com/ohSx4wPOEo
— NTV Kenya (@ntvkenya) October 8, 2018
President Uhuru Kenyatta has remained silent concerning the issue . But he has warned the leaders against spreading divisive politics instead should focus on bring the people together. The president is keen with ensuring he accomplishes his Big Four Agenda.
The state of Texas has 254 counties, 47 here seems like many only because you are staffing them with the wrong people. Don't be deceived! Preach the gospel of Good Governance not Referendum #ReferendumDebate
— Benji Ndolo (@BenjiNdolo) October 9, 2018
The push for a referendum has not involved Kenyans so far. The politicians are busy pushing for the debate without the public say .
On the #ReferendumDebate. Is there really a clamour for a referendum? #PressPass pic.twitter.com/zO1b3dBRfy
— NTV Kenya (@ntvkenya) October 8, 2018
Most Kenyans express their thoughts about this agenda for a constitutional reform through the use of different platforms.
I say this because most politicians are advocating for the amendments for the inclusivity of their interests. This needs to be a meaningful initiative to help build Kenya and we seek clarity on the precise articles that need to be amended. #AMLiveNTV #ReferendumDebate
— Whitney Micheni (@micheni_whitney) October 9, 2018
What are your views on the #ReferendumDebate? Is it clear or confusing? Share your thoughts with us #PressPass pic.twitter.com/0llUEGtBer
— NTV Kenya (@ntvkenya) October 8, 2018
The Kenyans hold the sovereign power to pass the agenda. Most politicians are expected to start mobilizing and educating their supporters why this call will help them be relieved of their burdens.
Why don't we use proceeds of #EurobondHeist to finance #ReferendumKE instead, since @ODP_kenya Ruto's surrogate, @KenyaTreasury CS @HKRotich has not accounted on its usage, must be in a suspense account somewhere. #EconomyKE = #CorruptionKE . #Resist kleptomaniacs and impostors pic.twitter.com/qUV4OmoJ4r
— Solomon Ambuku (@solo_ambuku) October 8, 2018
The constitution debate is healthy and timely but it must be centred on Omondi, Wanjiku and Wafula. It shouldn't be about three tire government. It should address war on corruption, wage bill and other fundamental issues than rewarding our misleaders#ReferendumDebate
— Shujaa (@Shujaa03) October 9, 2018