The debate over whether the country is ready for a referendum or not has taken centre stage in the past few months with politicians actively taking sides on the matter. The close political associates of Deputy President William Ruto dubbed Tangatanga have insisted the referendum may only take place to create new positions for some leaders while leaders affiliated with Team Kieleweke have affirmed the country needs a new order of things, a constitutional order that will enhance unity and bring Kenyans together, doing away with the win win or one take all situation after elections.
Recently in a function by the Embrace team held at Bukhungu stadium, COTU secretary general Francis Atwoli promised the country that come 2020 the country will be under a new constitution but are the residents of Kakamega County ready for the referendum?
Our talk with locals within Kakamega provided diverse opinions on whether the country should have a referendum. Benjamin Sakwa, a resident in Kakamega town felt that as much as the country should have some changes regarding the duplication of roles within the two governments the burden facing the common mwananchi is too unbearable, and it’s questionable if we are ready for a referendum, “If the country is in a situation where even proper execution of its executive function is a problem why subject it to an expensive referendum?” he posed.
Rose Natembea, a teacher in Kakamega, feels that the aspect on gender equality in different positions within the government will determine whether the proposed referendum will get the backing of women in Kakamega. She said despite efforts by the government and other bodies in lobbying for the two-thirds gender rule, the gap is still big and the issue should be factored in the referendum.
The war on corruption and general implementation of Chapter Six of the 2010 Constitution is still an issue that hangs on the neck of the government and more so in the judiciary. Gerishom Ouma, a tutor at Shamberere Technical College said that Kenyans are yet to see the full swing of the law in tackling corruption. “Kenya is the only country where we daily see the corrupt officials vying for elective seats, win, and use the power they have to protect their illegally acquired wealth,” he said, adding that the Judiciary must be more empowered in a new constitution.
With Dr. Ekuro Aukot’s Punguza Mizigo Bill facing all sorts of oppositions from both wananchi and the political class, Kakamega residents are optimistic that the BBI will provide the solution to reducing the burdens Kenyans are facing.