GOVERNMENT PROJECT

The push for a new constitution is a Government project, Prime Minister Raila Odinga has declared.

The PM said the Grand Coalition promised reforms, and a new constitution is one of the promises.

He also said campaigning for the Proposed Constitution was in line with the pledges made under the National Accord.

"I am not ashamed to declare the Proposed Constitution a Government project. The Government is a major stakeholder since all the commissions that gave birth to the document are spending State resources. It is a Government project," he said.

He, however, said it is not automatic that State resources will be used to ensure the document is adopted.

The PM said it is a collective responsibility of the Coalition Government to push for the ‘Yes’ vote.

Raila spoke yesterday in his office after launching the ‘Yes’ joint secretariat to be headed by ODM’s Janet Ongera and PNU’s Peter Kagwanja.

The PM said the secretariat would be expected to co-ordinate all campaigns, including devising winning strategies ahead of the August 4 referendum.

"We have entrusted the team to carry out logistics including planning of rallies to ensure we get a new constitution," said the PM.

Ms Ongera said: "We are up to the task and as a secretariat we will ensure all Kenyans get accurate information on the contents of the draft as we join hands to give this country a new beginning".

Prof Kagwanja said rallies would be organised in all parts of the country and leaders from all parties will address the electorate on the Proposed Constitution.

Raila said ‘Yes’ team would carry on with joint rallies, but still allow other members to go it on their own.