Fellow Kenyans,

We are happy to welcome the provisional results of the referendum. The historic journey that we began over 20 years ago is now coming to a happy end.

I assure our brothers and sisters who voted against the proposed constitution that their voices have been heard.

Let us all join hands together as we begin the process of national renewal under the new constitution.

The adoption of a new constitution is going to be a victory for Kenya and for the many people who fought long and hard for a new constitutional dispensation that reflects our hopes, our aspirations.

The successful and peaceful conclusion of this referendum shows that our democratic institutions have come of age. I am particularly pleased at the transparent and efficient manner that the Interim Independent electoral Commission conducted the referendum.



I also wish to thank the Right Honourable Prime Minister Raila Odinga, the Honourable Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka, Ministers, Members of Parliament and other national and local leaders for their frontline role and support for the new constitution. The Grand Coalition Government has been able to unite the Kenyan people to reach where we are today. I thank all the institutions established by the Grand Coalition Government under the reform agenda, for their valuable contribution.

Fellow Kenyans,

Let us all re-dedicate ourselves to fulfilling the dream of our founding fathers. Indeed may the new Constitutional dispensation be our shield and defender as we strive to conquer poverty, disease and ignorance.



The journey ahead of national renewal will not be easy. There will be challenges along the way. But it is important that we look forward with renewed optimism to better days ahead.

In you Kenyans, I see a great people ready to build a prosperous nation. I see in you hardworking farmers, dedicated public servants, professionals, industrialists, businessmen and women and leaders.



In our Youth, I see the next generation of leaders and drivers of our economy. It is to the youth, in particular, that we shall be looking up to in this great journey of national renewal.



In this regard I call for unity of purpose in all arms of government - the Executive, Parliament and the Judiciary, as well as political parties, civil society and the media to ensure successful implementation of the new constitution.



Fellow Kenyans,

I call upon all of us to channel our energies to transforming our economy and social well being to higher heights in accordance with vision Twenty Thirty.

We shall continue with dialogue as we implement the new constitution.

Those who have expressed different views about some of the issues in the new constitution will continue to be listened to within the vibrant democratic institutions established under the new constitution.

After all, democracy is about accepting the verdict of the majority while at the same time giving room for accommodation of the minority.

I would like to thank the Almighty God for blessing this country and its people.

May I also thank all our well wishers from many countries who are friends of Kenya. We value the encouragement they have rendered us in this long journey.

Finally let us all prepare to play our part in the New Kenyan Nation that will be ushered in through a new constitution once it is proclaimed.

Meanwhile, we shall soon announce the date of promulgation of the new constitution.


ASANTENI NA MUNGU AWABARIKI
PRESIDENT MWAI KIBAKI