ODM FOR CONSTITUTION

The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) on Sunday affirmed its support for the proposed draft constitution that is set to be debated in parliament.

ODM’s endorsement of the draft comes at a time a number of party members have tried to reintroduce debate on some of the issues that were agreed on at an MPs retreat in Naivasha.

ODM Secretary General Prof Anyang’ Nyong’o said that while some issues are yet to be resolved the party felt it was important to get a new constitution and resolve contentious issues later.

One such issue has been the proposed devolved system of governance.

“Of course, there may be genuine concerns on the part of the party regarding devolution and levels of government but we are willing to support the draft,” Prof Nyong’o said.

The ODM Minister stressed the party’s commitment towards achieving a new constitution, adding the party was in it for the long haul.

He argued that the proposed constitution was much better than the current one, which many Kenyans have been asking for.

Prof Nyong’o urged Kenyans to vote in the new constitution and called on other politicians to desist from engaging in political battles that may scuttle the process.

“This is not the time for recrimination. Nor is it the time for anyone to oppose the proposed Constitution due to some concerns. Kenyans are better off with this greatly improved draft than with the current constitutional dispensation,” he said.

Prof Nyong’o lauded the Committee of Experts for completing the draft on time and incorporating public opinion in the crucial proposed law.

ODM’s position on the constitution came as the country marked the second anniversary of the signing of the National Accord that bore the grand coalition government, where the two principals President Mwai Kibaki and Prime Minister Raila Odinga steered clear of talk on the constitution.