Debate over Kenya constitution draft intensifies News
Debate over Kenya constitution draft intensifies

[JURIST] Arguments over Kenya's draft constitution [text, PDF] have intensified after former Kenyan President Daniel arap Moi [Wikipedia profile] spoke out in opposition to the document over the weekend, saying it would cause "animosity and distrust" in the country. Religious groups have also opposed the proposals championed by current President Mwai Kibaki [official profile], arguing that the draft released early last week [JURIST report] does not properly distribute governmental powers and fails to establish a separation between state and religion. Critics, including a number of Cabinet ministers in Kibaki's own government, insist that the instrument originally prepared by the Constitution of Kenya Review Commission [official website] has not established proper controls on presidential power [JURIST report] and contend that the prospect of Islamic Sharia courts will cause discord between Christians and Muslims. A referendum on the constitution is expected to be held in November. BBC News has more.