NAIROBI, Kenya, Jan 4 – The Commission for the Implementation of the Constitution has been sworn into office and immediately began work.
Commissioners led by Chairman Charles Nyachae took an oath of office before Chief Justice Evan Gicheru on Tuesday and pledged allegiance to the Constitution and to remain independent in their work.
"In the interpretation of its constitutional mandate and the actual work the commission will be guided by the interest of Kenyans as encapsulated in the letter and spirit of the constitution," said Mr Nyachae in his maiden speech at the CJ\’s chambers.
Other commissioners include Catherine Muma, Kamotho Waiganjo, Philemon Mwaisaka, Prof Peter Wanyande, Dr Ibrahim M. Ali, Dr Elizabeth Muli, Florence Omosa, Catherine Muma, Kamotho Waiganjo, and Kibaya Imaana Laibuta.
The team shall oversee the implementation process and has a mandate lasting five years. The commission shall coordinate the preparation of the various Bills that will anchor the new law and facilitate the preparation of amendments to existing legislations.
In its duties, it shall work closely with the office of the Attorney General and the Kenya Law Reform Commission.
According to the Act creating the CIC, the commission is required to report to Parliament at least once every three months stating any difficulties in its work.
"It will be the policy of the commission to function in an open transparent and accountable manner to the public," said Mr Nyachae after being sworn in.
Justice and Constitutional Affairs Minister Mutula Kilonzo who was present at the ceremony assured the commission of his ministry\’s support in the course of their duties.
"We have already secured your office space. We have also requested the Treasury to release funds to enable you to embark on the critical task of implementation," he said.
Mr Kilonzo handed over to the commission two Bills prepared by his ministry for their evaluation and approval. The minister handed over to Mr Nyachae the Vetting of Judges and Magistrates Bill and that of the Judicial Service Bill.
"Feel free to adopt them or amend them as you wish," said Mr Kilonzo.
The commission immediately moved to their new offices at Delta House after the swearing in. The commissioners starts work over two months late following delay in parliamentary approval.
The Commission for Revenue Allocation and the Judiciary Service Commission are waiting to be sworn into office.
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