Anthony Kariuki

3 August 2010

Nairobi — President Kibaki and Prime Minister Raila Odinga have urged Kenyans to peacefully vote at the referendum on the proposed constitution Wednesday.

The President called on Kenyans to "seize the moment, and exercise your constitutional right and vote to determine the destiny of our country".

"I appeal to Kenyans to turn out and cast their votes in large numbers. Let us do so peacefully. Let us also embrace one another as brothers and sisters even after the referendum.

"God placed us in a beautiful country, Kenya. Let us remain united and focused on the work ahead. As we recite from our National Anthem "may we dwell in unity, peace and liberty." Let us all play our role in creating a great Kenyan nation, at peace with itself and respected among the greater family of nations," said President Kibaki.

The President assured Kenyans that security has been stepped in all areas of the country.

"Tomorrow, let us all go out and vote peacefully. Thereafter let us get back to undertaking the urgent work of nation building and creating opportunities for our people in this great land we call our home."

On his part, Mr Odinga appealed to Kenyans to prove the world wrong that the country is unable to hold peaceful, free and fair polls.

He said that it was unfortunate that a number of Kenyans also hold this view.

"I disagree very strongly. I believe Kenyans can hold elections that are free on ugly incidents, fair and transparent," said Mr Odinga.

The PM said the nation had a date with destiny on Wednesday and urged for a peaceful vote.

"I want to appeal to all Kenyans, Red or Green, to turn out in large numbers and cast their vote. I appeal to each of our citizens to ensure peace prevails throughout the voting period and after.

"Let us prove to the world and to ourselves that Kenya should and can be one nation, never divisible by religion, tribe, political party, race or any of the myriad issues that are bound to come up from time to time," said Mr Odinga.

He also urged Kenyans to participate fully at the referendum since it is an important decision that requires the input of all.

"Whatever his or her stand, each and every Kenyan who registered as a voter should cast the vote. This decision is too important to be made without the input of every Kenyan of voting age.

"Let us make a statement once and for all that we are not just a collection of tribes, clans, religious groups or races. Let us prove that we, the people of Kenya, can still stand up and make hard decisions for ourselves peacefully, in a free and fair contest."

Mr Odinga said the vote was part of the journey on reforms and reminded Kenyans that though the "road ahead will be long, rough and sometimes steep" the country will succeed.

President Kibaki will cast his vote at Munaini Primary School in Othaya at 10 a.m. while the PM will vote at the Old Kibera Primary School in his Langata constituency at 9 a.m.