Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Nairobi (Agenzia Fides) – Signs show a nearly certain victory for those who voted “yes” in the constitution referendum that was held yesterday, August 4, in Kenya (see Fides 03/08/2010). After a reading of 75% of the votes, the percentage of votes in favor of the new constitution is 67%.
The participation rate was not disclosed, but several sources believe it was around 70%. With 12.4 million voters, the absolute majority is expected to remain around 4.3 million votes. The vote yesterday was held amidst calm throughout the country.
“The fact that the referendum was conducted peacefully is a positive factor, which as the Church we cannot fail to recognize,” local Church sources told Fides. The Christian churches took a stance against the new constitutional text because of an article that opens the way for legalizing abortion. "This article has raised doubts even among those who support the adoption of the new Constitution. Among them is President Kibaki. In a speech on the occasion of the installation of His Excellency Bishop Maurice Muhatia Makumba, Bishop of Nakuru, the Head of State said he had personally opposed the insertion of an article that opens the door to abortion into the new Constitution," recalls the source of Fides.
"The victory of 'yes' on the referendum should not lead those who perhaps would like to think so, to think that the Church will stop making its voice heard in matters relevant to the country, and in particular those relating to moral issues. In the past, the Church has played a role as a counterweight to politics, especially when it [politics] took on an authoritarian character," concludes our source. (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides 08/05/2010)
