KENYAN RELIGIOUS LEADERS CONDEMN CONSTITUTIONAL BREACHES, CALL FOR CITIZEN-DRIVEN REFORMS.
BY NJOKI KARANJA.
In a strong statement released from Ufungamano House, Nairobi, the National Council of Churches of Kenya (NCCK) has denounced the ongoing breaches of Kenya's Constitution by the National Executive and Parliament. The press release, signed by Rev Dr Alphonse Kanga and Rev Canon Chris Kinyanjui, highlights critical issues and calls for urgent action.
Rev Canon Chris Kinyanjui with other religious leaders addressing the media at Christian students' Leadership Centre, Ufungamano House.
The NCCK expressed shock and dismay at the disregard for constitutional processes, citing the failure to constitute the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) as a major concern. This failure, according to the NCCK, has led to several violations of citizens' rights across various constituencies and wards in Kenya.
The release specifically pointed out:
1. **Constitutional Crisis:** The absence of a functioning IEBC has resulted in a breach of timelines for boundaries review, plunging Kenya into a constitutional crisis.
2. **Gender Rule Violation:** The National Assembly and the Senate are criticized for not adhering to the two-thirds gender rule, rendering them unconstitutional.
3. **Representation Denial:** Citizens in several constituencies and wards have been denied their right to representation due to the lack of an operational IEBC.
4. **Leadership Vacancies:** The citizens of Kisii County have been deprived of a Deputy Governor due to the absence of an IEBC to formalize the appointment.
The NCCK called for concerted efforts from all stakeholders to expedite the reconstitution of the IEBC. Additionally, they urged the Attorney General to seek an advisory opinion from the Supreme Court regarding the failure to meet constitutional timelines for the review of electoral boundaries.
Addressing electoral reforms towards 2027, the NCCK emphasized the importance of these reforms in improving governance, accountability, and legitimacy. They encouraged Kenyans to actively engage with the 9 Bills presented in the NADCO report and demand reforms that prioritize peaceful, free, fair, and credible elections, as well as increased participation and representation of marginalized groups.
In conclusion, the NCCK urged Kenyans to uphold justice and fairness, emphasizing the biblical call to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly. The press release serves as a rallying cry for citizen-driven reforms and accountability in Kenya's governance structures.
