This archive report was first published on 17 August 2019.
On August 17, 2019, leaders in Meru County, Kenya, gathered to express their stance on the proposed referendum. The gathering, which included Deputy President William Ruto, saw the leaders firmly reject the proposed referendum.
According to the leaders, the only legitimate way to review the constitution is through parliamentary or popular initiatives. They argued that the Building Bridges Initiative, which aims to review the constitution, lacks legal backing and would lead to a kangaroo process.
Senator Mintika Linturi emphasized that the initiative would coerce Parliament into owning it, resulting in impunity. She urged Kenyans not to support an initiative pushed forward by just two people.
Other leaders, including MPs Kubai Iringo and Gichunge Kabeabea, echoed similar sentiments, expressing concerns that the proposed referendum would burden the people and create positions for politicians.
Deputy President Ruto, however, asked leaders to focus on serving the people rather than engaging in perpetual politics. He emphasized that it is the people who have the final say on the issue of the referendum.
The leaders also announced their support for Deputy President Ruto's potential presidency in 2022, citing his development-conscious leadership.
