Sobriety

Mwai Kibaki has called on Kenyans to rise above individual and partisan interests and approach the exercise with a sense of sobriety in order to deliver the much awaited new constitution to Kenyans.

President Kibaki, who was speaking while presiding over the passing out parade of over 5,000 army recruits at Eldoret Armed forces Training College, pointed out that Kenyans were after a unifying constitution that guaranteed prosperity and the entrenchment of the modern tenets of democracy.

President Kibaki said publication of the harmonized draft provided the country with the unique opportunity to transform itself through a new constitutional dispensation.

The Head of State encouraged Kenyans to read the document and submit their views on the proposed constitution to enable the country build the necessary consensus that will pave way for a new constitution.

"Let us all place the interests of our dear nation above any partisan and individual interests. Kenya is greater than any individual or political and social grouping", the President said.

President Kibaki expressed Kenyans' desire to have a constitution that will faithfully and adequately serve current and future generations.

With regard to Armed Forces participation in development, the President affirmed the country's military personnel were highly reputed for their participation in international peace keeping operations in various parts of the world.

"The confidence bestowed on our troops serving outside the country is a true testimony of the high standards of our military training and professionalism", said the President.

The Head of State noted that a total of 858 military personnel are serving as part of the international peace keeping force in various parts of the world.

The President acknowledged the valuable contribution the Armed Forces continued to make in utilizing their skills and assets to spearhead development projects all over the country.

The Head of State urged the Armed Forces to uphold the noble tradition of civic activities in the interest of national development and the well being of the people.

On mopping up of illicit arms, President Kibaki appreciated past successful security operations conducted by the military to get rid of illegal fire arms and dismantle organized criminal groups.

He urged the Armed Forces to intensify efforts towards securing Kenya's borders from the influx of illegal firearms and drugs which contribute to increased levels of crime and insecurity in the country.

Expressing confidence that the Country's military has the capacity to defend our country against acts of external aggression, the President reassured Kenyans that the Government will take all necessary steps to defend its territorial integrity.

Reminding the graduands that they are entrusted with the duty of defending the country and will be posted to various units of the Armed Forces, the Head of State urged them to maintain high standards of discipline, commitment and professionalism in the discharge of their duties.

In attendance were Assistant Minister for Defence David Musila, Chief of General Staff Gen.Jeremiah Kianga and Rift Valley PC F. O. Warfa among other senior Government officials.