Reforms Must Be People Driven: NCCK Urges Citizen Engagement in Governance
By James Mutua
In a press statement issued from the Christian Students’ Leadership Center at Ufungamano House, the National Council of Churches of Kenya Tuesday highlighted the importance of validating the recommendations put forth in the report of the National Dialogue Committee (NADCO), recently passed by Parliament. Referring to Article 1 of the Constitution of Kenya, which asserts that sovereign power belongs to the people, the NCCK stressed the necessity of seeking public validation before implementing significant reforms.
The NCCK urged parliamentary speakers Hon. Moses Wetangula and Hon. Amason Kingi to ensure the accessibility of the NADCO report to all Kenyans and called for hearings in counties to gather citizen feedback. The statement emphasized the biblical warning against unjust laws and oppressive decrees, underscoring the moral imperative for representatives to heed the voice of the people.
Addressing concerns over proposed constitutional amendments, the NCCK emphasized the importance of a "people-driven" review process, citing past injustices resulting from amendments made without public consent. The statement drew attention to the historical struggle for constitutional rights and cautioned against repeating past mistakes, particularly in light of recent constitutional crises.
The NCCK expressed dismay at the breach of constitutional mandates, particularly regarding the failure to constitute the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC). Highlighting the adverse effects on electoral processes and democratic representation, the NCCK called for urgent action to rectify these violations and ensure adherence to constitutional timelines.
Looking ahead to electoral reforms leading up to 2027, the NCCK urged Kenyans to engage actively with proposed bills and advocate for reforms that prioritize peace, fairness, and inclusivity. The statement underscored the importance of safeguarding electoral integrity and enhancing representation for marginalized groups.
In conclusion, the NCCK called on all Kenyans to uphold principles of justice and fairness, urging citizens to remain vigilant in safeguarding the nation's sovereignty. Quoting from Micah 6:8, the statement underscored the moral imperative to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God.

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