Kenya Flag during The Katiba Day Celebration [PSC]
Kenya marked the 16th anniversary of the 2010 Constitution, celebrated as Katiba Day, as human rights groups acknowledged the monumental democratic gains achieved.
In Nakuru County, civil activists said the constitution has greatly expanded the freedom of expression and that of the media, enabling journalists and citizens to hold those in power accountable.
Laban Omusundi, a renown civil rights activist, noted “Unlike before, when media houses in Kenya did not have the freedom to criticise the government, nowadays the media can shed light on issues affecting citizens without fear of those in power."
He said increased freedom of expression has played a significant role in promoting accountability by allowing the media to expose corruption and injustices without intimidation.
Musundi also noted that the constitution has contributed to improvements in the justice system by promoting faster court processes and ensuring that suspects are presented before court within the required time.
However, some rights activists said the country continues to face challenges in fully implementing the Constitution.
Women’s rights activist Maimuna Mwinyi expressed concern over what she termed the continued violation of the rights and freedoms of the citizens guaranteed under Chapter Four of the Constitution.