As the country marked five years since the promulgation of the new constitution on Thursday afternoon, a group of people met at a Nakuru hotel to discuss the impact, gains and challenges arising from the new law.
The debate that brought together bloggers, journalists, civil society, university students and other interested parties was held at Legacy Hotel and also explored ways of bringing citizens together as defenders of the constitution.
“Today we seek to have an indepth look at the constitution that was promulgated today, five years ago. The new constitution brought with it new positions such as senators, governors and women reps,” said Kimani Nyoike of Inuka Kenya Ni Sisi! Group.
Kimani was the facilitator of the discussion dubbed the #MaskaniNakuru tweetup, which comprised real time tweeting as the discussion progressed.
Speaking at the event, Martin Gicinga, a Nakuru based online journalist and blogger said the biggest challenge he faces was the understanding of the constitution by most Kenyans.
“I think the greatest challenge in the implementation of the constitution is the fact that most Kenyans don’t understand it. We have Kenyans who have never read the constitution and who voted for or against it on political grounds,” were his sentiments which were echoed by many in attendance.
Another journalist Kioko Kivandi said his greatest challenge was implementing it as per the spirit of the constitution.
“Although we have one of the best constitutions in the world, not actually following the spirit of the constitution is failing us. That’s why corruption is still rife and tribalism still rules,” said Kioko.
Other topics that were covered were the impact of devolution in the county and the role of elected leaders under the new constitution.
The event was organised by Maskani ya Taifa.