Sunday, September 5, 2010

We knew about Bashir's visit, says Ruto

By Edwin Cheserek

Higher Education Minister William Ruto has said the Cabinet was informed of the invitation of Sudan President Omar al-Bashir to the promulgation ceremony at Uhuru Park.

Ruto said if Bashir’s invitation was a mistake, then the Government should own up.

"This is not time to look for scapegoats and excuses, it is time we roll our sleeves and build a new Kenya," he said.

Ruto took issue with Cabinet members who are claiming al-Bashir was not invited.

Accept Reality

Speaking at Chepkoilel University College’s agri-business trade fair on Friday, Ruto said al-Bashir flew into the country with the mission of attending the promulgation of the new Constitution.

"We should not do things and regret later. We should only accept the reality and forge ahead," said Ruto.

Bashir’s presence during the promulgation of the new Constitution at Uhuru Park gave indications that Kenya is not ready to co-operate with the International Criminal Court (ICC).

ICC wants Sudan’s President for crimes against humanity and genocide in the Darfur region.

On the new Constitution, Ruto said it was time leaders ignored sideshows and diversions now that the new laws were in place.

"Issues that can divide this country should be left out because public business demands honesty and concentration," he said.

"For Kenyans to benefit from the new Constitution, it needs concerted efforts from each and every individual."

Ruto reiterated that contentious issues in the new Constitution should be amended.

The Eldoret North MP called for unity among those who supported the new Constitution and those who opposed it.

"A good idea must pave way for a better one and therefore clauses considered sensitive should be removed," he said.

He expressed optimism that the new laws would steer the country to prosperity.

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