Church faults push to alter supreme law

The African Inland Church on Monday criticised politicians pushing for a referendum to change the Constitution.

Bishop Silas Yego said although he supported the call for more money to be given to the counties, the country did not need a referendum just months after the General Election.

“We should give the new government breathing space. Even if the allocations to the counties should be increased to 40 per cent, there are some logistics which should be worked out,” he said.

He went on: “The counties enjoy national government good will. The national government should be given the benefit of doubt to implement devolution.”

Bishop Yego said the Jubilee administration should be given time and judged after two years on its achievements. “We need healing in this country. Those in the opposition should also know this is their country and stop trying to fix one another.”

He asked leaders to stop politicking and concentrate on development matters.

The bishop said Kenyans should emulate Western countries like the UK and the US where politics ends immediately after the election irrespective of the outcome.
Cord, the civil society and governors are pushing for a referendum to strengthen the Senate.

Council of Governors chairman Isaac Rutto said he would start collecting six million signatures next month in support of the referendum, to strengthen the Senate, increase allocations to counties to more than 40 per cent of national revenue and allow devolved units to handle such roles as constructing schools and giving bursaries to needy students.

“The referendum is not about Cord, Jubilee or Transition Authority but to protect devolution. Devolution is not CDF, Uwezo Fund or being told to use that money first or to keep quiet,” Mr Rutto said.

He said counties should also be allowed to handle rural electrification and roads docket.