Kenyans will now mark August 27 every year as Katiba Day, following a proclamation issued by President William Ruto to commemorate the Constitution of Kenya 2010.
In the announcement made on Monday, August 25, the President described the Constitution as one of the most progressive in the world and said dedicating a day to it will provide citizens with an opportunity to reflect on the country’s democratic journey and renew their commitment to constitutionalism.
Ruto reminded Kenyans that on August 27, 2010, the country turned a new page in its history when the Constitution was promulgated.
He said the event was a defining moment that gave birth to a new era of devolution, citizen-centred governance, equitable development, and enhanced protection of rights and freedoms.
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“The promulgation of the Constitution of Kenya 2010 marked a defining moment in our nation’s history, heralding a new era of constitutionalism and shared aspirations for a more just, equitable and prosperous nation,” Ruto stated in the proclamation.
The declaration comes at a symbolic time, as this Wednesday marks the 15th anniversary of the Constitution. According to the President, the milestone calls for both celebration of progress made and sober reflection on the unfinished work of fully realising constitutional promises.
Katiba Day will be observed every year on August 27 within the country and in all Kenyan diplomatic missions abroad.
Not a public holiday
The Head of State clarified that Katiba Day will remain a working day, not a public holiday. However, government institutions, county administrations and schools will be required to organise activities aimed at promoting civic awareness.
These activities will include public lectures, community forums, school debates and discussions on governance, democracy and the rule of law.
The aim, Ruto said, is to ensure that Kenyans not only celebrate the Constitution but also understand it and live by its principles.
“Katiba Day shall be observed throughout the territory of Kenya and in our missions abroad as a day dedicated to renewing our shared commitment to the ideals of our Constitution,” the proclamation read.
The 2010 Constitution introduced sweeping reforms, including the establishment of 47 devolved county governments, a strengthened judiciary with the creation of the Supreme Court, and an expanded Bill of Rights guaranteeing economic, social and cultural freedoms.
It also entrenched checks and balances across state organs and gave citizens greater space to participate in governance.
However, critics note that implementation has not matched expectations. Issues such as corruption, uneven distribution of resources, political interference, and weak accountability mechanisms remain persistent.
Civil society groups have welcomed the idea of Katiba Day but emphasised that it should be used as a platform for genuine reflection, not just ceremonial celebration.
The inaugural Katiba Day will be marked this Wednesday with activities expected across the country. Kenyan missions abroad have also been instructed to host similar events to engage citizens in the diaspora.
Ruto said the commemoration is meant to be more than an annual ritual, calling it a reminder of the duty to preserve and safeguard constitutional values.
“The Constitution is not merely a legal document but a living guide for our democracy,” he said.
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