This archive report was first published on 7 December 2019.
On December 7, 2019, the Building Bridges Initiative (BBI) report was finally released, marking a significant step towards Kenya's political and economic transformation.
The report's executive summary highlights the country's pressing issues, including the lack of jobs and income, which have led to widespread poverty, inequality, and frustrated hopes.
According to the report, Kenya's political system is on the brink of collapse due to ethnicized and do-or-die politics, which has led to negative ethnicity and disunity among citizens.
The BBI report proposes a new system of governance, where citizens commit to duties and responsibilities, rather than just rights. This includes the domestication of Article 29 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples Rights into Kenya's Constitution.
The report also advocates for the emergence of national political parties, with defined membership, democratically elected officials, and free and fair party nominations.
One of the most radical proposals is the introduction of a hybrid executive model, where the president and prime minister share power. The prime minister would be responsible for the day-to-day functions of government, while the president would chair the Cabinet.
The report also recommends the creation of a leader of the opposition, who would be the runner-up in the presidential election. This leader would have a shadow cabinet, facilitated through public funds, to challenge the government of the day.
While the BBI report has been met with mixed reactions, it is clear that it marks a significant step towards Kenya's political and economic transformation. The report's proposals, if implemented, could lead to a more inclusive and equitable society, where citizens have a say in the governance of their country.
