Preparations roll on for Kenya fete

Kenya’s military preparations continued on Wednesday at Uhuru Park in Nairobi, in readiness for Friday’s promulgation of the new Constitution by President Kibaki.

The rehearsal that was attended by the top bosses from the armed forces went on with full display of military hardware, as crowds looked on.

An NTV reporter on the ground said people were at the venue from as early as 5am, braving the chilly weather to witness the soldiers get ready for August 27.

Uhuru Park has been declared a no-go zone from later on Wednesday, in a massive security clampdown running until the actual day. On Tuesday, the country’s head of police operations, Mr Julius Ndegwa said security measures had been taken to ensure the grounds remain safe for the ceremony.

On Friday, traffic will be diverted away from roads near the park. Uhuru Highway, Cathedral Road, City Hall Way, Kenyatta Avenue and Haile Sellasie Avenue, will be closed and traffic into the city will use alternative roads. Buildings around the venue will also be closed to the public from Thursday evening until the end of the ceremony.

Friday’s promulgation event will be marked with a parade of the disciplined forces in the country, with military shows being the highlight of the day.

From early this week, the military has put on display fighter jets, tanks, helicopters, cargo carriers, telecommunications equipment and other weaponry not seen in public for years.

Those involved in the march-past parade will include formations from the Kenya Army, the Kenya Navy, the Kenya Airforce, regular police, Administration Police, Forest Guards and KWS rangers as well as the National Youth Service.

History

During the ceremony, there will also be an air display by jet-fighters, helicopters and cargo planes. A 21-gun salute, to mark a very important day in the history of a nation - is expected after President Kibaki signs the new constitution into law.

Foreign heads of state and other dignitaries have been invited for the occasion, in what is billed as the biggest celebrations since 1964, when the country became a republic.

Kenya will be ushering in a new era, though the new constitution which Kenyans endorsed at the August 4 referendum. The new dispensation brings in a bill of rights, which entrenches basic human rights of every Kenyan in to law; a significant reality given a past where these rights have been denied.

On that day, President and all ministers will be expected to take an oath to respect uphold the new constitution. Members of Parliament and Government officials will also take the oath, though at a later date.