UoN engages Senators in discourse on Constitution implementation

Abstract

Senators have a key role to play in demystifying the Constitution of Kenya, 2010 to citizens and ensuring its implementation.

Stakeholders in a forum organized to discuss constitutionalism, noted that Kenyans need to be empowered for prosperity by equipping them with broad based knowledge on their citizenship, human rights, good governance, sustainability livelihoods and development. This was the key take-out during an interactive round table forum for Senators and key stakeholders organized by the University of Nairobi (UoN) and Ford Foundation, to discuss their role in the implementation of the Constitution 2010.

The forum which is part of the ‘Elimika’ activities – an initiative on Construction of Knowledge Societies – brought together Senators and academia. The Senate Speaker, Hon. Ekwee Ethuro lauded the role played by Kenyan universities and Senators in creating a culture of constitutionalism and the rule of law and urged them to create more public participation.

Addressing the stakeholders, the keynote speaker, Prof. Karuti Kanyinga, from the Institute of Development Studies, remarked that the Constitution presented various challenges and opportunities to Kenyans. He said “Service delivery, job creation, infrastructural development and correction of injustices are some of the opportunities presented by the Constitution thereby creating an optimistic nation.” He noted that, the process of the implementation of the Constitution has faced challenges due to lack of political commitment, ownership and leadership from the leaders. This has contributed to some of the implementation challenges facing the nation.

The Vice-Chancellor, represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academic Affairs, Prof. Henry Mutoro, said that today’s knowledge society is a fusion of new technologies, innovations and the emerging internet based technologies that are providing fresh opportunities for the promotion and widening of public knowledge. Prof. Mutoro said that the Constitution 2010 needs to be signified and presented in a manner that is understandable and which can be appreciated by all.

‘Elimika,’ the initiative, has created an opportunity to relook at education and build knowledge blocks that will help Kenyans articulate their rights and responsibilities. The forum was also addressed by Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission, Chairman Mr. Mumo Matemo, and representatives from the Ministry of Health, Ford Foundation, Commission for Revenue Allocation among others.