Sunday, July 11, 2010

Hostile reception for ‘No’ team in Kakamega

Leaders opposed to adoption of the Proposed Constitution received a rude shock when they took their crusade to Kakamega’s Muliro Gardens.

The rally was marred with heckling, shout downs and finally a massive walk out from the location.

The incensed crowd rushed to the streets and repeatedly shouted "Katiba, Yes", bringing business and traffic to a standstill.

Those interviewed said the speakers were misleading them gay marriages would be allowed if the proposed law is passed.
A section of the crowd of youths that heckled speakers at a rally organised by the ‘No’ team in Kakamega, on Sunday. Photo: Benjamin Sakwa/Standard


The ‘Yes’ team held a rally at the same venue two weeks ago.

Higher Education Minister William Ruto, who led the delegation, was at one point forced to cut short his speech when the heckling increased.

"Those are ‘Yes’ people. Let us continue with our meeting because they are just passing by," he said.

He said those who were shouting him down did not want to be told the truth about the proposed laws.

A section of the crowd persistently booed as Ruto continued with his speech.

Ruto later told The Standard his rivals had ferried hecklers to the venue in four lorries to disrupt the rally.

He said the group of hecklers only occupied the lower side of the venue and were paid to jeer and then walk out

Gender discrimination

Trouble started when Mr Jirongo was at the podium explaining why Western Province should vote no at the referendum. He indicated that international laws would apply in the country.

"Laws in countries that allow gay marriages will apply here," he said.

He further said the document showed there would be no discrimination based on race, sex, and religion among others.

"What is this sex the document is talking about? It should have called it gender. This means the law will not discriminate against gay people," he said.

The crowd booed and Jirongo pleaded to be heard.

Jirongo found himself in more trouble when he said couples in marriage would be equal with the passing of proposed laws.

"When it says we will be equal, it means if I come home late tonight, my wife has the right to come home late the following day," he said.

Women at the venue shouted, "lies! lies!"

Jirongo added that the clause on marriage says he will perform household chores equally with his wife.

Ms Simam told the crowd women will be deprived their rights, as men will be allowed to marry fellow men.

The crowd booed, saying her sentiments were misleading.

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