Jubilee MPs launch Boresha Katiba referendum campaign

Jubilee MPs have launched Boresha Katiba referendum campaign aimed at changing several clauses in the Constitution.

The MPs, led by Mukurweini MP Kabando wa Kabando, Kilgoris MP Gideon Konchella and Tiaty MP Asman Kamama said they are seeking 3 million signatures to push for a referendum that will effect several changes in the Constitution including devolving 46 per cent of national resources to the counties.

The MPs also seek to grant Parliament the mandate to appoint Cabinet Secretaries, a responsibility currently handled by the President.

Boresha Katiba also seeks to ensure equality in the appointment of public servants by ensuring that not more than 20 per cent of appointees come from one community.

The launch has struck similarity with CORD’s Okoa Kenya referendum push, though the MPs have dispelled any resemblance.

Speaking during the launch, Kamama said some of the issues raised in Boresha Katiba do not necessarily need a referendum because they can be addressed in Parliament. He stated that should there be a need for a referendum, then it will be held alongside the 2017 elections.

He accused the Coalition for for Reforms and Democracy (CORD) of pushing on with the Okoa Kenya referendum campaign, saying holding a referendum in 2016 and an election in 2017 will stretch the country financially and politically.

He further stated that CORD is pursuing the referendum push to destabilise the Jubilee Government to their advantage ahead of the 2017 polls.

The announcement comes days after CORD submitted 1.4 million signatures in support of their Okoa Kenya referendum push to the Independent and Electoral Commission (IEBC) last week.

Speaking during the presentation, CORD leader Raila Odinga said the coalition seeks to use the referendum to propose changes in the Constitution that will safeguard devolution and promote accountability.

IEBC Vice chairperson Lillian Mahiri-Zaja said the commission will verify the documents within 90 days before presenting it to the 47 counties where it will need verification by at least 24 counties. If it manages to get the required support, it will be introduced to Parliament for debate.