A Kenyan don cautions on CA process, urges ‘Ukawa’ members to respect CA

As the reconciliation talks between the ruling party and the coalition members of defenders of the People’s Constitution popularly known in its Kiswahili acronym ‘Ukawa’ is still in a deadlock, a Kenyan don has cautioned them to resolve their standoff in Constituent  Assembly (CA). It has been learnt. Professor Patrick Luoch Otieno of the University of Nairobi in Kenya made a concern yesterday in Dar es Salaam when contributing to an open debate forum organized by the Tanzania Law Society (TLS) focusing the Tanzania Constitution process. The dialogue concerned mainly the existing misunderstandings of different groups on the constitution making process which is expected to resume its sessions in CA in Dodoma early next week. Professor Otieno added that, the mistake which was done earlier involving political party members in the constitutional making process whereby most of them put their party’s interests and leaving behind national interests which is the main theme of the constitution.  “You are supposed to understand that constitution is for Tanzanians and not for political parties so, it is better for you to focus on patriotism rather than what you are doing now” Prof. Otieno questioned. He further added that, Constitutional Review Commission fulfilled its work accordingly so it is upon you to decide whether you are in need of new constitution or not, if you need new constitution Ukawa members should change their standing and go back to the CA since there are three options they can apply them so as Tanzanians could get new constitution they want. According to Prof. Otieno, Ukawa’s match out was right but they were supposed to consider two steps before moving out of the CA, they could present their arguments, voting and the final one moving out. “Basing on the study conducted it shows that more than 90 percent of Tanzanians are in need of new constitution which will solve their social, economic and political problems as well and not vice versa” Prof Otieno added. He went on, clarifying that CCM should focus on their political interests likewise to Chadema, Civic United Front (CUF) and NCCR Mageuzi, but when turning back to national interest they should put their political interest aside and give more priority on national interest.