President extols reformists

KISUMU, Kenya, Jul 31 - President Mwai Kibaki has paid glowing tribute to Kenyans who have been spearheading the reform agenda in the country.

The President expressed confidence that the unity of purpose demonstrated by reformist will continue even after passing the new constitution to hasten development.

The President, who was addressing Nyanza leaders at the Kisumu Yatch Club, said the teamwork displayed in the quest for the new Constitution will bear fruits after next Wednesday’s national referendum.

“Kenyans have waited for over 20 years to get a new Constitution and time was now ripe to conclude the process and turn to other priority nation building activities,” President Kibaki said.

The President welcomed back Prime Minister Raila Odinga, who was in the meeting, to join the “Yes” team in the remaining days of campaigning for the new Constitution.

On education, President Kibaki expressed satisfaction that the Free Education Programme had opened doors for many children to acquire education and assured the public that once passed, the Proposed Constitution will entrench the rights of Kenyans to education.

He, at the same time, called on Kenyans to rededicate themselves to the peace and support the Government in its development endeavours.

With regard to regional integration, the President said more countries had shown interest in joining the East African community, pointing out that currently the EAC has five members which are Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Burundi and Rwanda.

Prime Minister Raila Odinga thanked President Kibaki for tirelessly leading the “Yes” campaign team during his absence.

Mr Raila said he had no doubt that Kenyans would this time around pass the Proposed Constitution.

The Prime Minister echoed President Kibaki’s optimism that Kenyans will deliver the next liberation.

Others speakers at the meeting included Vice-President Kalonzo Musyoka, Deputy Prime Minister Musalia Mudavadi, several cabinet ministers from Nyanza and Kisumu Town East and West MPs Shakeel Shabbir and Olago Aluoch.

The leaders appreciated the sound economic policies put in place by President Kibaki’s Government to revive the economy and dilapidated infrastructure in the country.

The Ministers also thanked the President for energetically leading the “Yes” campaign team.

In attendance were 12 Cabinet ministers, several assistant minister, 14 Nyanza MPs and professionals from the region.