On 22^nd March 2011, H.E. President Mwai Kibaki addressed a special sitting of parliament to urge the members of the August House to pass at least 10 legislations and other several crucial reforms required to implement the new constitution which will ensure that the 2012 elections are, “conducted within a framework that guarantees the freedom and fair exercise of people’s choices.”httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2eM-ARMrUmk

According to The National Accord and Reconciliation Act, 2008, “a coalition must be a partnership with commitment on both sides to govern together and push through a reform agenda for the benefit of all Kenyans.” The Grand Coalition Government was anticipated to boost the process of constitutional reform-which has been done, now shifting focus to its implementation. In his address, the President said, “the Grand Coalition Government is determined to systematically implement the new constitution.” However, the government is falling behind schedule in implementing the prerequisite reforms, “which must have been passed according to the Fifth Schedule (the fifth schedule lays out the table of implementation) of the constitution, within one year of the promulgation of the constitution,” stated the President. He also highlighted bills relating to judicial reforms and electoral systems, which will be intended to; strengthen accountability, administration of justice, rule of law and ensure checks and balances in governance.”

To be able to conduct a free and fair elections-process is undoubtedly a challenging task, however, it should be noted that, “the sum of parts is greater than the whole.” The August House has a great responsibility of setting up the necessary prerequisite legislations and civil education prior to the 2012 elections. These call for; unity within the Coalition partners, and the prioritization of the process of the implementation of the constitution. Thus any decision to be made and acted upon should follow thorough dialogue and scrutiny such that the end will be seen to justify the means.

References:

Kibaki Urges MPs to Pass Reform Bills 22/03/2011
Kibaki Urges Reforms in Run-Up to Kenyan Elections 23/03/2011

Pres. Kibaki’s Address During a Special Sitting Of Parliament 22/03/2011