Sunday, August 29, 2010

A Nation Reborn....Kenya's New Constitution

Optimism, painted on the face of every Kenyan, saturating the oxygen depleted air of Nairobi. Reminiscent of Obama's inauguration Kenyans captivated by the illumination of televisions at their local Nakumutt (Kenya's Walmart) as the President of Kenya, Mwai Kibaki, endorsed the document amidst cheers from the capacity crowd (Kenyans took advantage of every vantages including atop trees). Supported by numerous, in the flesh, international dignitaries and punctuated by a 21 gun salute.



A new constitution debated for over 20 years and replacing their original constitution from 1963. The purpose; to curb the corruption that has infected Kenyan society. The BBC summarizes the most significant components of the new constitution:

* Parliamentary oversight of most presidential appointments and decisions
* Constitutional limits on the number of cabinet posts
* A senate to review parliamentary decisions
* Powerful provincial governments replaced by a network of smaller counties
* The creation of a Judicial Service Commission
* A citizens' Bill of Rights
* A land commission to return stolen property and review past abuses

A new day, a fresh leaf. A catapult for future growth, development and new standards of living. A win for Kenya, a win for Africa, a win for the people.

Congratulations to Kenyans! And do Kenyans like to celebrate!

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