Kenyan government tries to pass dangerous, foreign constitution

(Social Justice South Africa)

Article by Marc Aupiais


View Larger Map



'No' side claims dirty tricks in Kenya referendum campaign | RFI

"Popular support for the new constitutition was supposed to be a fait accompli. That was until the mainstream churches threw a spanner in the works. They mobilised for a rejection of the draft, claiming that it is liberal on abortion and same-sex relationship and that it introduces Muslim Khadi courts.
Former President Daniel Arap Moi and influential politicians from the populous Rift Valley province are opposing the draft over the same issues and over the question of land.

President Mwai Kibaki, Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka, Prime Minister Raila Odinga and nearly 90 per cent of the cabinet and MPs addressed a huge rally in Nariobi’s Uhuru Park, urging a massive turn-out in favour of the draft.



[...]

The no campaign held a similar rally in the city’s Jamhuri Park. They accuse the government of using underhand methods and intimidation to get support for the draft because it senses defeat.

Tom Namwamba, who heads the no campaign secretariat, claims that the president’s side of using underhand tactics. They have used thugs to attack his office and steal material, he says, ordered civil servants to campaign for a yes vote and booked all choice venues in Nairobi to deny his side a convenient venue to hold their rallies.

“If you see anybody engaged in such petty, barbaric practices, then you know that that person has read the signs of losing,” he comments."

Radio France Internationale [RFI] (Secular; French)

01 / 08 | Aug / 2010

A no side rally was tragically bombed some time ago, as I reported then, noting that the government said not to jump to conclusions as to who bombed it. The yes side, has the backing of US president Barack Obama, who seems to have been flexing muscle to insure the constitution, which encourages homosexuality and abortion passes, Kenya may find additional aid coming their way if they acquiesce in the matter of values, and culture. Other controversial elements include "land reform" clauses which the opposition claims may cause tensions between black and white Kenyans. Kenya suffers from endemic violence and also racism, White (Caucasian) and Indian (Asian) Kenyans have both faced persecution in the past. The current government has been accused of allowing the creation of death squadrons (Agenzia Fides: The Vatican's Missionary News Service 24 / 09 | Sept / 2008), which allegedly killed and tortured rivals, and those allegedly involved in crime. The government claims that the Constitution will pass, despite Catholic and evangelical opposition to what is essentially a foreign constitution, misrepresenting the culture and values of Kenya.

In 2009 our service noted:

"Kenya: more general Overview:

Kenya, was once one of Africa's so-called: shining stars, however, electoral violence, and purported human rights abuses, along with drought, and famine: have harshly affected, what once was a nation, seen, perhaps falsely as a hope for many.

In previous articles, we have covered, the political situation in Kenya, having stabilized somewhat at this stage. Recent events, however: show a government, made up largely of people, seemingly more interested in their own political success, than in the success of their country. The global economic downturn, will likely also affect such nations: but with such a makeshift government, the chances are, that problems in Kenya, won't be ultimately solved overnight. Efforts, at helping populations make it through such trying times: however, can make differences in lives, just as efforts in Zimbabwe, and the DRC (Congo), have paid off somewhat.

Corruption, and accountability in Africa

What Kenya, and much of Africa: truly need at this point, is accountability for actions, politically, and in business. That a situation, such as the one: over, or perhaps caused by alleged vote rigging, and alleged political human rights abuses: has occurred: has made Kenya less able to deal with life threatening situations."

Archives

13 / 01 | Jan / 2009

South African Catholic News Service: Twitter|Facebook|Facebook Discuss|CAF|YouTube|UStream News|UStream Editorial | Email



As an internationally collaborative: initiative to provide a more transparent, accurate view of the world: This service is brought to you by the Scripturelink Search Engine (quotations, or confers in this service/initiative, are provided to give perspective independently, or reference some external sources: and do not imply collaboration, or any kind of affiliation, or co-operation with other services, or initiatives, which are quoted or noted in articles)



Check the accuracy, and perspectives of our contents via the above listed search engine: against other "Catholic" services

Roman Catholic Pontiff to FAO summit: Empathy, moral business, lack of waste, access to fair markets: ways to reduce global hunger, "climate changes"

(World Tainted Green)

[English; Afrikaans; français]

Article by Marc Aupiais

The Roman Catholic Pontiff, recently portrayed access to markets, empathy with and respect for those with less, and preventing waste as sure ways forward in the fight against hunger, "climate change".

The FOA (Food and Agricultural Organization of the United Nations [UN]), along with other ground-level players, have increasingly emphasized local production over imported food aid, and a need to stimulate local markets, and educate farmers, and built infrastructure in food insecure areas. The majority of infrastructure, at least in the case of systems such as railways, on the African continent, is in one country: the Republic of South Africa, which itself does not spend enough on infrastructure in general.

The following will be a quotation (with paragraphing added), of the Vatican's Missionary News Service, Agenzia Fides, which notes a speech by the Roman Catholic Pontiff to a summit hosted by the the Food and Agricultural Organization of the United Nations. Quoting their article does not mean endorsement of the organization or their article, we provide this quotation in the interest of the public:

"

VATICANO

VATICAN - Holy Father tells FAO Summit: “Hunger is the most cruel and concrete sign of poverty. Opulence and waste are no longer acceptable when the tragedy of hunger is assuming ever greater proportions.”

Rome (Agenzia Fides) - “Hunger is the most cruel and concrete sign of poverty. Opulence and waste are no longer acceptable when the tragedy of hunger is assuming ever greater proportions.” This is what the Holy Father Benedict XVI said in his address on November 26 at the FAO headquarters in Rome, on the opening of the World Summit on Food Security.


In his address, the Pope recalled that although “statistics bear witness to the dramatic growth in the number of people suffering from hunger,” it has also been confirmed that “the world has enough food for all its inhabitants” and that “there is no cause-and-effect relationship between population growth and hunger.” Reiterating what he had affirmed in his Encyclical Caritas in veritate, Benedict XVI mentioned that “the problem of food insecurity needs to be addressed within a long-term perspective, eliminating the structural causes that give rise to it and promoting the agricultural development of poorer countries,” and “the need to oppose those forms of aid that do grave damage to the agricultural sector, those approaches to food production that are geared solely towards consumption and lack a wider perspective, and especially greed, which causes speculation to rear its head even in the marketing of cereals, as if food were to be treated just like any other commodity.”


The Pontiff then reflected on the “weakness of current mechanisms for food security and the need to re-examine them,” highlighting that the concept of cooperation should be coherent with the principle of subsidiarity. “With regard to countries that are in need of external support, the international community has the duty to assist with the instruments of cooperation, assuming collective responsibility for their development,” the Pope said. “In this way, cooperation must become an effective instrument, unbeholden to interests that can absorb a not insignificant part of the resources destined for development.” 


Benedict XVI also mentioned the risk of considering hunger “as structural, an integral part of the socio-political situation of the weakest countries, a matter of resigned regret, if not downright indifference.” “It is not so, and it must never be so!” the Pope exclaimed, saying that it was essential to “start redefining the concepts and principles that have hitherto governed international relations,” as “only in the name of common membership of the worldwide human family can every people and therefore every country be asked to practice solidarity, that is, to shoulder the burden of concrete responsibilities in meeting the needs of others, so as to favor the genuine sharing of goods, founded on love.”


To eliminate hunger, international action cannot limit itself to “international action is needed not only to promote balanced and sustainable economic growth and political stability, but also to seek out new parameters – primarily ethical but also juridical and economic ones – capable of inspiring the degree of cooperation required to build a relationship of parity between countries at different stages of development.”


In the second part of his address, the Holy Father indicated several necessary steps to take to combat hunger, promoting an integral human development: not view the rural world as something of secondary importance; favor access to the international market of products from the poorest areas; separate the rules of international trade from the logic of profit viewed as an end in itself. “Nor must the fundamental rights of the individual be forgotten, which include, of course, the right to sufficient, healthy and nutritious food, and likewise water; these rights take on an important role in the realization of others, beginning with the primary one, the right to life.” 


Methods of food production likewise demand attentive analysis of the relationship between development and protection of the environment, as “the desire to possess and to exploit the resources of the planet in an excessive and disordered manner is the primary cause of all environmental degradation.” In this sense, the interaction between environmental protection and climate changes are further examined and the human person, especially the most vulnerable populations, are placed at the heart of both phenomena. 


“Norms, legislation, development plans and investments are not enough, however: what is needed is a change in the lifestyles of individuals and communities, in habits of consumption and in perceptions of what is genuinely needed. Most of all, there is a moral duty to distinguish between good and evil in human action, so as to rediscover the bond of communion that unites the human person and creation,” the Pope warned.


In concluding his address, Benedict XVI mentioned the Church's commitment, without interfering in political decisions: “she respects the knowledge gained through scientific study, and decisions arrived at through reason responsibly enlightened by authentically human values, and she supports the effort to eliminate hunger. This is the most immediate and concrete sign of solidarity inspired by charity, and it brooks neither delay nor compromise.” (SL) (Agenzia Fides 17/11/2009)"

(Agenzia Fides / Fides Service (Catholic; Hierarchical; Vatican Based) 17 / 11 | November / 2009)

DRC- Congo- Kivu Region- Catholic Relief Services pulls two relif workers out of country. Only grass roots organizations like Caritas Internationalis still easily operate in wartorn region

(Social Justice South Africa; c.f. Catholic News Service 30/10/08; Caritas Internationalis 30/10/08; BBC World News (Secular) 29/10/08)

Article by Marc Aupiais

Catholic Relief Services has pulled two relief workers out of the DRC into neighboring Rwanda- due to unsafe conditions of operation, however they claim this is an isolated event, and not a general withdrawal. The Relief workers can't wait to get back to the CRS headquarters in the southern Congo, where the organization's efforts are based.

In recent days a UN peace-keeper helicopter was shot at, purportedly, if UN sources quoted by the BBC (29/10/08) are to be taken as accurate- not by rebels, but by Rwandan troops, and DRC troops have been noted as shooting across the border when they saw weapons fire. The BBC's representation- noted exchanges of fire. Rwanda denies involvement in the conflict. Rebels however claim to have a purpose of fighting Rwanda's own claimed rebels they claim to be in the Congo. We cannot verify any of these claims, by the Rebels.


Caritas Internationalis is appealing for an end to violence. After a recent cease fire called for by rebel forces, and a UN condemnation of rebel activities, as rebels have attacked UN troops- there was still the sounds of gunfire under the shadows of the dark African night.

Caritas Internationalis needs better conditions to ensure 16 000 persons who they are supplying with food necessities get this. Other organizations, including Catholic Relief Services, are appealing western governments to intervene diplomatically. Much of the important work on the ground, however- is still being done by Caritas Internationalis, whose use of local grassroots people has enabled them to continue operations where some other organizations have needed to reassess the aid they are giving. Both Catholic Relief Services, who are appealing for US diplomatic support, and Development and Peace (who are asking the Canadian government for intervention), plan to use Caritas Internationalis in order to supply needs in the Goma Region, where Caritas has structures still in place.

Sites of those mentioned for their aid of efforts:

Caritas Internationalis
Catholic Reflief Services
Development and Peace

Social Justice South Africa- DRC- Congo-Caritas- Appeal for 440 000 dollars- as Ugandan "Lords Resistance Army" continues human rights abuses, burning villages, and committing other attrocities

(Social Justice South Africa; c.f. Caritas Internationalis 16/10/08)

Article by Marc Aupiais

Caritas Internationalis is desperately asking for urgent aid of $440 000 in order to supply 4 000 people with blankets, clothes, cooking utensils, and hygiene items. The so-called "Lord's Resistance Army", based in foreign Uganda has been raping villagers, burning villages, and killing innocent civilians since September, despite a January ceasefire.

Recently- Caritas appealed for aid for 90 000 people already affected by the conflict between the government of the country, and the rebels- famous for their use of child soldiers, who are kidnapped and brainwashed.

The Ugandan based Rebels are known for their abuses of human rights- against Congolese civilians. The LRA is only one of the horrific factors which have prompted a burst in conflict, and civilian casualties over the past months.

Many of these displaced civilians- brothers and sisters of ours in their shared humanity- like many refugees, such as the Christians, currently victim to a genocide in India- are facing the dangers that nature has to offer those without basics needed for survival. Caritas Internationalis is well known for their abilities when it comes to ensuring the best use of resources. Caritas Internationalis will be using the funds to aid civilians.

World Bank- Financial Crisis will create 100 million new poor people- majority in Africa

(Social Justice South Africa; c.f. Agenzia Fides 14/10/08)

According to the President of the world bank- the First World (Developed World) Financial Crisis will force another 100 million people, majority being in Africa- into poverty. This is as analysts estimate that 607 billion dollars are hidden in foreign bank accounts, having been stolen from the African people via fraud and other activities. This is enough to pay off African nations' debts, but due to rampant corruption- the poor continue to be abused on the continent- as western nations continue to neglect forcing a raising of standards by those they trade with.

The milk crisis, and use of child labor in many Asian Nations, are a direct result of western Negligence. Africa has a very similar, unnatural situation- due to western powers refusing to solve the route causes of problems, as the Vatican also has recently asked them to do, with issues involving conflict.

DRC Congo- Rebels continue to use the defense of an ethnic group as a defense, and first world woes as a cover to perpetrate their actions

(Social Justice South Africa; c.f. Agenzia Fides 10/10/08)

Article by Marc Aupiais

Agenzia Fides reports (10/10/08) that using the media fog over Africa, the excuse of the defense of an ethnic group, and the misdirection of the global attention to internal issues such as financial issues, and terrorism- the Congo rebels continue to wage war on their government- displacing 1.2 million people.

Unlike Sudan- countries like the DRC, and Somalia which also are facing unjust aggression, and internal conflicts from different parties against others and for their own benefit- do not receive the needed media attention to help stem the tides of these conflicts and humanitarian situations- rather- these stories are oft kept out of the media- and when they appear in it, often nothing is done to better the situations- leaving western citizens believing the situations either solved, or because of inadequate efforts in the past and present to stop these conflicts- that they will not be solved by external aid.

The people behind the ship theft tragedy!

(Social Justice South Africa; c.f. Agenzia Fides 9/10/2008)

Article by Marc Aupiais

The Ukrainian arms carrying ship stolen off the Somali coast must not ecclipse the source of the problem- that being the dire humanitarian situation in the country. This according to Agenzia Fides (09/10/2008), who note that 3 250 000 Somalis need emergency aid, and that the level in need of this is nearly double (77% greater)that of January 2008.

Agenzia Fides- Humanitarian situation in DRC continues to worsen

(Social Justice South Africa; c.f.
Agenzia Fides 09/10/08)

Article by Marc Aupiais

The situation in North Kivu DRC, continues to worsen each day- and humanitarian organizations, including Caritas Internationalis are continuing to try to aid with the limited funds they have.

Often- to even get to refugees, one must enter the country by a dangerous route from from neighboring Rwanda. The aid of many is left directly to missionaries and the church, as many issues continue to prevent any real relief from the civil war in the country, and from its effects.

It is confirmed on the ground that many people in affected areas also
have dangerous health conditions.

A positive aspect- is that some children are being taught in schools again!

Congo- Missionaries call for backlash against Kivu Rebels- say no ligitimacy in treating them equally with governemt

(Social Justice South Africa; C.f. Agenzia Fides 29/09/08)

Article by Marc Aupiais

Agenzia Fides reports that a group of Christian Missionaries (“Congo Peace Network”(Agenzia Fides 29/09/08)) are questioning UN policy of putting government and the Rebel group CNDP of Kivu on the same playing field.

They claim that a Rebel group known for their violent actions- cannot share the same position as a democratically elected government with a popular referendum's constitution. This comes as fighting intensifies.

The leader of the Kivu rebels, Nkunda, continues to be gifted by authorities, with - freedom of movement. This is despite his organization's human rights abuses being decried by secular humanitarian group Amnesty International. Nkunda enjoys protection from the Congo's government from these treaties, making irrelevant- having an arrest warrant pending- for many crimes including extortion. The Rebel group, which profits from illegal mining is also known for recent kidnappings, to further replenish stocks of child soldiers.

The Missionaries consider it dangerous to give such legitimacy to the Rebels, and desire for the UN to act against these. They say that peace treaties organized, have turned out to give a sort of amnesty to these aggressors, who are profiting from the situation.

Despite treaties, the fighting has continued, and the international community seems still to refuse to take sides.

Kofi Anan Speaks out on Keya Violence- Agenzia Fides

(Social Justice South Africa; c.f. Agenzia Fides)

Article by Marc Aupiais

Agenzia Fides Reports- that United Nations Secretry General- Kofi Anan says :

“The situation of the internal refugees is in the mind of all Kenyans. We need to find a solution as soon as possible.” (Agenzia Fides, 26/9/2008).

He speaks of 80 000 internal refugees that have yet to return home after the deaths of a thousand Kenyans in January and February- after accusations of election fraud, where 350 000 Kenyans fled their homes and houses. 129 camps hold 76 400 people across Kenya, and their government is attempting to get the refugees back into their homes, with a program named after a Swahili phrase translated "Return Home" (Agenzia Fides, 26/9/2008).

Election Violence in Kenya and accusations of election fraud reverberated at the beginning of the year in Kenya's election.

Recent articles have alleged the presence of "Death Squadrons" active in Kenya.

Other than the already about 76 400 people in camps around Kenya- about 220 000 people rely on the Red Cross for basic survival.

The reincorporation is hailed as necessary to combat the Kenyan food shortage- as many of the refugees are farmers, relied upon to produce basic produce...

Congo- not to be in 63rd General Assembly- due to fighting in their country

(Social Justice South Africa; c.f. Agenzia Fides)

Article by Marc Aupiais

Agenzia Fides (25/9/2008)is reporting that The Congo's president and representative will not go to the UN general assembly in light of the crisis in the country.

Days ago- Caritas International reported human rights abuses, raiding of medical facilities by combatants, and other issues such as arbitrary arrest in the Eastern DRC. Agenzia Fides states that the Government along with the UN task team in the country are now involved in conflicts with rebels near the Rwandan border, and against the LRA near the Ugandan border, who have apparently kidnapped dozens of children. Africa is famous for its child soldiers, and many problems.

The government has cited the same peace agreement mentioned by Caritas a few days ago- in which all combatants agreed to a withdrawal, and have apparently sent urgent aid shipments to camps and affected areas.

This follows calls by Caritas International days ago for Humanitarian channels to be reopened and a ceasefire implimented.

Caritas Appeals Successful

(Social Justice South Africa; c.f. Caritas International)

Article by Marc Aupiais

Recent appeals by Caritas, as guests invited to a UN summit have paid off, with pledges of about 16 billion dollars in aid to developing nations and such causes.

Caritas notes- they don't need to hear from the UN about poverty- Caritas deals with the poor daily.

President of Caritas, Cardinal Oscar Rodríguez Maradiaga- said that the pledges are needed to address the impact of climate change on the poorest communities: but notes that the Millennium Development goals, are still decades off the path in Sub-Saharan Africa and other places. Last year aid from the G7 reduced by 1 percent (excluding debt relief), not much- except that when aid is reduced by such in such a large scale- one in a hundred people who were supported, will no longer be entitled to this. The organization of Catholic Charities can't comprehend how 700 billion dollars is so easily requested in the US for a lost gamble by banks- but 10 000 000 children dying on a yearly rate, of causes that are so easily prevented- do not get the label of crises.

This comes following the proposed 700 billion dollar bailout of US banking giants.

The relatively small contributions however will help the continent. They will also go to some extent of fulfilling promises neglected largely by rich nations to the developing world.