Church accuses State of betrayal in constitutional talks

By Beauttah Omanga

Church leaders have accused the Government of betraying their trust in the ongoing talks on the Proposed Constitution.

The clerics came out breathing fire from the talks meant to unlock a standoff, which threatens a unified campaign for the draft constitution.

They also came up with fresh demands to President Kibaki and Prime Minister Raila Odinga.

They want the two principals to mandate the joint committee to handle all contentious issues, including those raised by other leaders.

They also want their recommendations to be legally binding and the agreements be factored into the final draft to be released by the Attorney General.

Addressing the Press at Ufungamano House in Nairobi yesterday, the clergy protested against the intensifying ‘Yes’ campaigns by senior Government officials.

They asked the Government to retract the sentiments issued at the weekend, which according to them misrepresented their position.

The clerics singled out Justice Minister Mutula Kilonzo, saying he had gone public on what they had discussed, creating an impression the Church was ready to support the draft.

"The Justice minister owes the Church an apology over his weekend remarks. We cannot hold talks with the Government only for ministers to go out and talk things that can easily kill the trust of the Church in the negotiations," said National Council of Churches of Kenya Secretary-General Canon Peter Karanja,

The clergy spoke just hours after Raila and Mutula took the ‘Yes’ campaign to Lang’ata, where they explained the contents of the draft singling out the contentious issues.

Kadhi’s courts

Raila said the Kadhi’s courts, which the Church oppose, have nothing to do with them and abortion clause is meant to save the mother in case of danger.

Mutula said he was not aware of any disparaging remarks the churches were protesting about.

"I only said the Government side is waiting for the churches to nominate their representatives to the talks. I am hearing it from you that the churches are annoyed with me," he said.

He added: "If anything, even the PM has today rooted for a ‘Yes’ vote at the referendum and explained in details the issues the churches and others people are complaining about. What is the bone of contention between me and the churches?"

At Ufungamano, the clerics said they have not softened their opposition. They insisted the Constitutional review Act be amended to create a window for consensus.

They also hit out at the civil societies, accusing them siding with the Government to water down their concerns in the draft.

The clergy announced their representatives to the draft talks with the Government. They include Bishop Philip Sulumeti (Catholic), Reverend Willy Mutiso (Evangelical Alliance), Bishop Gerry Kibarabara, (Gospel Assemblies of Kenya), Bishop David Oginde (Christ is the Answer Ministries) and Reverend Charles Kibicho, the NCCK chairman.