Fellow Kenyans,
One year ago, we gathered as a nation at the historic Uhuru Park, to usher in
the second republic. On that morning we renewed our sense of nationhood and
promulgated a new constitution that heralded much hope and optimism for our
country.
One year after that momentous occasion we can look back at the journey that we have travelled and proclaim to the world that the path of transformation for our nation has begun.
The momentum to fully implement our constitution is unstoppable. I can confidently state that the Kenyan people have embraced our constitution. I salute them for their resolve to walk the journey we began.
I congratulate the many individuals and institutions in the public service and stakeholders who have worked extremely hard to prepare the laws necessary to anchor the constitution.
Fellow Kenyans,
Those who have
watched Kenya keenly have witnessed the onset of fundamental changes in the
last twelve months. New institutions have been established through which we
shall deepen our democracy and develop our country. Individuals who were appointed
after the most rigorous and transparent processes are now at the helm of these
institutions. Our National Assembly has worked extra hard and passed necessary
laws which directly impact on the implementation of
the Constitution.
I congratulate
Members of the National Assembly because they have discharged their constitutional
mandate under Article 261 of the Constitution within the required time. Parliament
has done Kenyans proud.It has risen to the occasion when duty called.
Our Constitution has presented another opportunity. We are now renewing the
ordinary laws of Kenya. Indeed, we are refurbishing our legal system. Few countries
in the world ever get the opportunity to fundamentally renew their legal system.
Our constitution has also brought in an inclusive governance structure, embracing equitable, regional and gender participation.
The constitution focuses on the needs of minorities and other disadvantaged groups. We will now devolve the government to the counties and ensure that every part of our country is developed.
Fellow Kenyans,
A few challenges have presented themselves in the task of implementing our constitution.
Once in a while differences of opinion among the multiple actors, charged with
the implementation of the constitution will arise. These must be resolved amicably.
Together, we must focus on what is best for Kenya. Harmony is critical as we entrench our constitution through legislative and other measures.
There are Bills that must be developed and passed within the time frame of one and a half years, two years, three years, four years and five years after the promulgation of the Constitution.
We must embark
on finalizing the next round of legislation. Time is still of the essence. There
are other important Bills expected to be passed for which
no deadline exists. We must also work on these.
The Constitution requires that we put in place all the new institutions that it has established. This is an urgent matter that the government is addressing.
Fellow Kenyans,
I sense change all around our country. We are living in exciting times.I am
clear in my mind that implementing the Constitution is the other side of the
coin of implementing VISION TWENTY THIRTY.
I also know that my vision of transforming Kenya into a working and caring nation will be realized as we implement our new Constitution and VISION TWENTY THIRTY.
The Constitution also establishes national principles and values that describe our country's vision. In particular, those who serve our country in positions of leadership must be men and women of integrity.
Let us remember that the purpose of this constitution is to re-energise our country, strengthen our institutions of governance and to make our democracy more vibrant.
The constitution is also a vehicle for galvanising our development efforts to make our country cohesive, strong and prosperous.
As your President I re-dedicate myself to helping in implementation of the remaining phases of the constitution.
Thank you and God Bless You All.