The Kenya Christian lawyers fellowship.
By Cynthia Masibo,
The Kenya Christian Lawyers Fellowship (KCLF) has issued a comprehensive statement addressing the current state of the nation, urging urgent reforms to address public discontent and improve governance. The KCLF commends young Kenyans for their aspirations and demands for accountability in managing national resources, and they acknowledge the government’s recent change of stance on the Finance Bill 2024, following President William Ruto’s speech on June 26, 2024.
“The Finance Bill 2024 was a symptom that galvanized a sentiment of dissatisfaction in our systems of governance,” KCLF stated. They emphasized that the nation’s young leaders are pushing for substantive change and good governance.
Key Action Points
1. Transformation through National Dialogue:
KCLF supports the President’s call for a National Dialogue, urging it to be a representative process that addresses fundamental issues beyond the Finance Bill. They propose forming a task force to tackle social and economic challenges affecting the youth. This dialogue must be concrete, with clear rules of engagement, allowing all voices to be heard and followed by actionable steps.
2. Accounting for Missing Persons:
Following reports of unaccounted individuals during recent protests, KCLF calls for a transparent process to report and locate missing persons. They stress the involvement of human rights organizations as observers to ensure transparency and accountability. The National Security Council, the Ministry of Interior and National Administration, and the National Police Service should establish a helpline and guidelines for response.
3. Support for the Injured and Bereaved Families:
KCLF demands financial and institutional support for those injured during demonstrations and for bereaved families. They suggest coordinating with county governments and relevant ministries, such as the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection and the Ministry of Health, to provide free medical services and support to the affected families.
4. Inquiry into Police Actions:
Acknowledging concerns over excessive force by police, KCLF urges a special investigation by the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA), Kenya Human Rights Commission, and the Law Society of Kenya (LSK). They emphasize the need for a proper audit report to be presented to the nation, holding unprofessional officers accountable while commending those who acted professionally.
5. Change the Face of Government:
KCLF calls for a reorganization of the government, suggesting that new faces and fresh ideas are needed to restore public confidence and deliver the promises of the Kenya Kwanza Manifesto. They urge the President to consider dropping the appointment of Chief Administrative Secretaries (CASs) and reorganizing key leadership positions to enhance goodwill from the public.
6. Bold Economic Stimulus Program:
To spur economic transformation and job creation, especially for the youth, KCLF recommends tax incentives for Micro, Small, and Medium-Sized Enterprises (MSMEs), attracting foreign investment, and establishing a dream team of progressive business minds. They highlight the need for a robust investment program to create new jobs and provide young Kenyans with opportunities.
7. Identifying Quick Wins:
Immediate issues, such as the funding model for university education and the need for a permanent dialogue forum between current and emerging leaders, need urgent attention. KCLF suggests adopting technology for traffic law administration, introducing compliance profiling legislation, and creating an efficient feedback mechanism for government services.
The KCLF concludes with a call for the government to reintroduce a meritocratic welfare system for university students, establish mentorship programs, and create an efficient feedback mechanism for government services.
“God bless Kenya, God bless our Young Leaders,” the statement concludes, emphasizing hope for a brighter future through these proposed reforms. The KCLF believes that these actions will help Kenya navigate its current challenges and set a foundation for sustainable growth and good governance.
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