TIGHT SECURITY

There was tight security at a campaign rally for the proposed constitution attended by President Kibaki, Prime Minister Raila Odinga and Vice-President Kalonzo Musyoka in Nakuru on Saturday.

Those attending the ‘Yes’ rally at the Afraha Stadium were thoroughly screened at the gates. Regular and administration police frisked everybody entering the venue. As a result, a big crowd opted to follow the proceedings from outside the stadium.

The police, acting on orders from Nakuru DC Kang’ethe Thuku, blocked the exits, thwarting movement of those who wished to get out of the stadium before the leaders made their speeches.

Some people began leaving the venue after realising there were close to 40 speakers before the two principals who arrived in Nakuru town just before 1 p.m.

President Kibaki appealed to Kenyans to remain united despite the different positions they have taken in regard to the proposed constitution.

“People should avoid incitement that may end up dividing the country. There should be respect despite the diverse opinions on the proposed constitution,” he said.

Mr Odinga accused the ‘No’ group of pushing their selfish interests. “They are not even sincere when they are criticising the proposed constitution. They are resorting to falsehoods and propaganda to win sympathy,” Mr Odinga said.

The Vice-President did not stay long at the meeting. After delivering his speech he left for a burial in Ukambani. Mr Musyoka sought to allay fears that there would be violence if the constitution is passed at the August 4 referendum.

“The constitution allows Kenyans to live and invest in any part of the country and those intimidating communities saying if the constitution was passed they would be evicted would be dealt with accordingly,” he said.

Economic growth

The team stopped and addressed supporters in Limuru, Uplands, Naivasha and Gilgil. President Kibaki said by voting for the proposed constitution Kenyans would pave the way for investment that is essential for economic growth and creation of jobs.

“We are working towards improving this country because we have the interest of the youth at heart and want to lay a solid foundation that will empower them,” President Kibaki said.

At Gilgil, the Prime Minister said while the constitution caters for the needs of all Kenyans, it particularly ensures that women reap maximum benefits through affirmative action.

Thirty-three of the 49 MPs from the Rift Valley Province have declared support for the proposed constitution. During the meeting at Afraha, drama unfolded when Cabinet minister Helen Sambili directly attacked nominated MP Musa Sirma for allegedly undermining her.

Prof Sambili was angered by Mr Sirma’s move to introduce a nominated councillor from her Mogotio constituency as the ‘Yes’ campaign coordinator.

The fuming minister said: “He is not even an elected MP and neither is he from my constituency. I want to tell Mr Sirma that he should desist from maligning my name.