Netherlands Institute for Multiparty Democracy

Yesterday, a large majority of the Kenyan people approved a new constitution through a referendum. Both the result and the peaceful conduct of the referendum present a great mandate for political reform in Kenya.

On 4 August, Kenyans go to the polls, facing a choice between 'Yes' or 'No' in answer to the question: "Do you approve the proposed constitution?" or in Swahili: "Je, unaikubali katiba mpya inayopendekezwa?"

Today, a number of African countries are moving towards a constitutional order that is not only democratic and legitimate, but also inclusive and popularly accepted.