3 YEARS OR 1 000 000

The government will monitor statements made by politicians during the referendum campaigns to curb hate speech.

The Government Spokesman Dr Alfred Mutua said Thursday that statements made to incite the public will not be allowed.

His statement comes just days after the National Cohesion and Integration Commission warned that drastic action will be taken against politicians who fan hatred during the campaigns.

Politicians caught inciting the public during the referendum campaign risk a three year jail term or a fine of up to Sh 1 million shillings.

The commission’s chairman Mr Mzalendo Kibunja said on Tuesday that they do not intend to muzzle politicians' right to express their views. This move, he said, would be looking out for those who divided Kenyans through their speeches.

Dr Mutua further confirmed that the draft constitution will not be amended before the referendum.

He said that amendments can only be made after the draft constitution passes during the referendum.

He urged Kenyans to register as voters saying that the old voters’ cards will not be valid and will not be used during the referendum.

The government will look into the reasons why few Kenyans have turned up to register, he said.

“Parliament will go to recess to allow legislators to convince their constituents to register,” he said.

The Government Spokesman also said that copies of the draft will be printed and distributed to Kenyans in order to assist in making an informed decision.