Reform underway

Kalonzo Musyoka has re-affirmed the Government's commitment to carrying out reforms aimed at enhancing the democratization process in the country.

Mr. Musyoka said it was only through the implementation of Agenda Four that peace and stability could be realized especially in the areas hit by 2008 post election violence.

"I want to make it clear that the reform process is underway and I am sure with the way things are being carried out at the moment, we are heading somewhere'', he said.

Speaking at his Jogoo House office Wednesday when he received officials from the National Democratic Institute (NDI) who had made a courtesy call on him, the Vice President urged the media to focus more on development matters as opposed to negative or biased reporting.

NDI is a non-profit, non-partisan organization working to support and strengthen democratic institutions worldwide.

"I believe the role of media is critical in the democratization process of any country,'' said Mr. Musyoka.

"The media should not only highlight the problems affecting people of a given country but should also suggest ways of solving such problems,'' he added.

He said there was need for the media to highlight efforts being made by leaders in the ongoing crusade against ethnicity and negative publicity in the country.

Mr. Musyoka, who is also the Minister for Home Affairs, said the Government has encouraged an open door policy among its departments with a view to ensuring effective delivery of services to the public.

"We have now encouraged an open door policy among the Government departments even the ones that members of the public could not have access to as one way of promoting effective delivery of service,'' said Mr. Musyoka.

"We are also putting in place mechanisms aimed at ensuring that our electoral system becomes simple and transparent to enhance the democratization process in this country,'' said the VP.

He said there was urgent need for political parties to explore ways of ensuring that members maintained discipline and respect among themselves.

"All members of every political party must exercise restrain and maintain discipline among themselves instead of pointing an accusing finger at each other even in the public and yet they are members of the same party,'' he said.

NDI officials led by Regional Director Susan Page and Director for Elections and Political Parties Pat Marloe commended efforts being made by Kenya in the democratization process.

They said it was time the media played a productive role in its day-today activities instead of dwelling on the negative side of what it covered.

"Dialogue with the media, civil society and leaders should be encouraged if the problems facing the people have to be solved,'' said Ms Page.