Kibaki calls for reforms vote

President Kibaki has urged Kenyans to vote for the Proposed Constitution during the referendum next month.

Kibaki said Kenyans should vote for reform and change on August 4.

The Head of State said the country is at the threshold of major reforms that are contained in the document.

"This is why I support the Proposed Constitution and urge Kenyans to turn up in large numbers and vote for reform and change on August 4," Kibaki said when he presided over the official opening of the Nakuru Agricultural Society of Kenya Show.

Speaking at the same function, Agriculture Minister Sally Kosgei said Rift Valley MPs supporting the Proposed Constitution would not be cowed by threats that they are putting their political careers at risk by campaigning for the ‘Yes’ side.

"I cannot be persuaded to be a water melon so that I can retain my Parliamentary seat," the minister said.

Kosgey referred to the ‘No’ proponents in the region as Vuvuzelas and accused them of using the constitution debate to campaign in readiness for the 2012 General Election.

Self serving people

"They are self serving people who are seeking a short cut to power. When I say I support the Proposed Constitution I mean every word of it," she said.

Kibaki said the Government was committed to the restoration of the dwindling forest cover and protection of the water towers.

"This province carries three major water towers which include the Mau complex, Cherangany Hills and part of Mt Elgon forest that we must jealously protect from any further encroachment," he added.

The President announced a total of Sh28 million would be spent to pay youth engaged in the tree planting project under the Kazi Kwa Vijana programme.

On agriculture, the President said tremendous increase in the production of maize, wheat and other food crops is as a result of Government efforts to support farmers in mechanisation as well as provision of farm inputs.

He said that in Rift Valley, which is the country’s food basket, 619 metric tonnes of assorted seeds valued at Sh71.7 million and 45,700 metric tonnes of subsidised fertiliser valued at Sh916 million were supplied by the Government.

Livestock minister Mohammed Kuti, Roads Assistant Minister Lee Kinyanjui and Molo MP Joseph Kiuna were present.