'No' verdict a wake up call

Kenyans' decision to return a resounding 'No' verdict at the referendum on the proposed new constituion should serve as a wake up call to the leaders who have chosen to ignore the will of the people. Never mind the fact that colossal amounts of money were spent as Kenyans waited for the document for almost fifteen years. Yet, this is a loss the country could easily avert if only the leaders, who constitute president Mwai Kibaki's kitchen cabinet,were ready for a constitution that is people-driven.

It is ironical that leaders, who only a few years ago were rooting for a parliamentary system of government suddenly changed tune once they assumed power. How power corrupts!Notably,Internal security minister John Michuki had the bravado to say that they only wanted to have a parliamentary system when former president Daniel arap Moi was in power. But now that 'one of their own' is in power, he has to be allowed to enjoy a powerful presidency.

But Kenyans were not going to allow a bad constitution, drafted with a few individuals in mind, to be forced down their throats. Not even huge bribes dished out by the president and his cohorts could sway their resolve. The upshot is that Kenyans have attained democratic maturity and no amount of intimidation can make them give up on their inalienable rights.

The way forward now is for the two opposing camps to go back to the drawing board and come up with a constitution that Kenyans want. It is commendable that the 'No' leaders have called for reconciliation and vowed to work with their opponents. President Kibaki must also be commended for conceding defeat and pledging to begin the healing process. That is what the nation needs at the moment.