Now for an EA Constitution to cement unity

Such a Constitution would spell out the definition and objectives of the Community and outlined its competences and institutional framework.

It would also enshrine a Bill of Rights and detail how the EAC would reach and implement decisions.

Like the Kenyan document, it would be negotiated through a consultative process taking on board the views of citizens in all partner states.

Ultimately, the decision of when and how to federate would be put to East Africans in a referendum.

This Constitution would represent the first time East Africans were involved in the integration project.

It would establish the Community in the hearts of the people and secure it for generations to come.

Without it, the long-cherished ambition of unity will remain prey to the fabled political will of the region’s leaders.