On this day 14 years ago, Kenya’s 2010 Constitution, commonly known as the "Katiba," was promulgated, marking a pivotal moment in the country’s history. It was hailed as a significant step forward, though many believed it was "80% good and 20% flawed."

Hits:

The Constitution’s most celebrated achievement is devolution, which established 47 counties with their own governments, bringing governance closer to the people and ensuring a more equitable distribution of resources. The Bill of Rights, another key feature, has expanded civil liberties and played a crucial role in advancing human rights. The Constitution also enhanced the independence of the judiciary, enabling courts to check executive power and uphold the rule of law. Additionally, it introduced a clear separation of powers, strengthening democratic governance through effective checks and balances.

Misses:

However, the journey has not been without challenges. Implementation gaps have plagued the Constitution, with critical areas like land reform and the two-thirds gender rule still unmet. The presidential system has sometimes exacerbated political power struggles and ethnic divisions, undermining national unity. Corruption remains a significant issue despite constitutional safeguards, and the devolution process, while beneficial, has faced hurdles such as county-level corruption and resource distribution conflicts.

Conclusion:

Fourteen years on, the 2010 Constitution has been more of a hit than a miss, contributing significantly to improved governance and democracy. Yet, the challenges in implementation and persistent issues like corruption indicate that Kenya still has work to do to fully realize the Katiba’s potential. As discussions on possible amendments continue, the Constitution remains a crucial tool in Kenya’s ongoing journey towards better governance.