(Thumbnail Image: Daily Nation)
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“Fourth of August is a day that has been long in coming. But the day is finally here. Here, at the central primary school polling station in Kitui constituency, voters have been coming here since five in the morning to ensure that their voice is heard and that their vote carries the day.”
Kenyans head to the polls to vote on a referendum on a constitution that addresses the nation’s corrupt political system.
But the vote brings back memories of violence in Kenya’s last presidential election in 2007, which killed thousands.
We’re analyzing coverage from NTV Kenya, CNN, The National Review, Sky News, France 24, and Daily Nation.
If passed, the constitution would limit the presidency by giving more power to local governments. It would also set in place land reforms and a Bill of Rights.
Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga told CNN that the constitution would fundamentally change the African nation.
“The vote itself, actually, is in a transformative key in society. We are reconstructing the architecture of our country. We are going to create a second republic with this referendum.”
But The National Review reports Christian groups are opposing the referendum, arguing against components that ease abortion restrictions and allow Muslim-only Kadhi courts as an alternative to civil courts.
“While everyone agrees there is a pressing need for constitutional reform, the constitution they have been given is simply unacceptable and must be rewritten to protect life and religious freedom.”
Sky News recalls Kenya’s 2007 presidential election, which was marred by ethnic quarrels across the country. The reporter also explains why land reforms are necessary.
“The town of Eldoret in the Rift Valley has a history of ethnic violence. The region erupted after the post election fighting, which killed over 1,300 people and left around half a million Kenyans homeless. Hundreds are still living in temporary camps, either because they can’t afford to rebuild their destroyed homes or they’re just too afraid to go back.”
With the 2007 election in mind, Kenya stepped up its security — deploying over 63,000 police officers across polling stations. France 24 suggests those efforts should be enough to keep crowds under control.
“There is some concern that we could see sporadic outbreaks of protests after the results on Friday. There are about 18,000 extra police officers been sent up there. But I think we are unlikely to see anything like the disastrous violence, which followed the 2007 election results.”
A writer for Daily Nation, a Kenyan newspaper, says no matter the outcome of today’s vote, Kenyans must stick together to improve their quality of life.
“What is important is not just the mere outcome of the vote, but that Kenyans remains one united, indivisible and committed to driving forward the reform agenda towards the creation of a stable, peaceful and prosperous nation.”
The Interim Independent Electoral Commission, which is overseeing the vote, says it is confident it will see a fair, peaceful election.
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WRITER: Steven Hsieh
PRODUCER: Newsy Staff
