US told to keep off Kenyan referendum

Written By:KBC reporters , Posted: Sun, Jul 18, 2010

The NO camp has once again told the US government to keep off the Kenyan referendum.

The 'reds' led by Higher Education Minister William Ruto claimed that they have evidence that the Obama administration is funding the YES camp.

Addressing a press conference Sunday in Mombasa before heading for a public rally at Tononoka grounds, Ruto said the US was funding various groups including COTU to drum up support for the proposed constitution.

He said it was clear that the US was out to influence the outcome of the forthcoming referendum.

Ruto asked the American government to stop interfering with the referendum process claiming that approximately 23million dollars had been provided to various groups to promote the yes campaign.

Last week, the US denied providing money to support the "Yes" campaign.

"These claims are categorically false, and those making such allegations are lying," read Monday's statement from the US embassy.

The US said it was supporting the constitutional review process as the centrepiece of the broad reform agenda agreed to following the post-election crisis.

Meanwhile, The Yes team intensified its campaigns across the country, with several MPs urging Kenyans to vote for the proposed law.

Led by Deputy Prime Minister Musalia Mudavadi the MPs took a swipe at former President Daniel Moi, for opposing the review process, yet he failed to deliver constitutional reforms during his 24 year tenure.

The greens who have renewed momentum after a recent opinion poll placed them in the lead, called for unity among supporters to ensure the proposed constitution sails through the referendum.

They noted that Kenyans have always wanted a checked presidency and long standing land issues resolved, saying that the proposed law will address these shortcomings.

Elsewhere, Water Minister Charity Ngilu retreated to her Kitui backyard where she urged her constituents to vote yes, as the proposed law would ensure all the stolen public funds are recovered.