Kibaki declares Kenya referendum holiday

President Kibaki has declared a public holiday on August 4 to allow the full participation of Kenyans at the referendum on the proposed Constitution.

"Public Officers, who will need to travel upcountry to cast their vote, will be allowed to travel on the afternoon of August 3rd, 2010. The Government urges the Private Sector to accord similar consideration to their employees," said a statement posted on the government spokesman's website.

Kenyans will go to the polls to either approve or reject the proposed Constitution on Wednesday at a referendum, whose campaigns have pitted two rivals- the Yes and No camps.

The Yes camp is led by President Kibaki and Prime Minister Raila Odinga, who are pushing for the passage of the new law at next week's vote. Also in this group are senior government leaders, including Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka, deputy prime ministers Uhuru Kenyatta and Musalia Mudavadi.

Higher Education minister William Ruto and former president Moi represent the face of the No camp opposed to some provisions in the document touching on land, abortion, devolution among others.

"It is important that all Kenyans come out and vote for this historic moment that will define the development of our country and the generations to come. The vote is critical because it will bring important changes in the country.

Adequate measures have been put in place to ensure the smooth conduct and security of the referendum. Kenyans have nothing to be worried about but should come out and exercise their right to vote," said Dr Mutua statement.