Vote on Kenyan constitution may spark violence

Political observers in Kenya fear violence could break out if a proposed constitution is adopted during a referendum early next month.

Political observers in Kenya fear violence could break out if a proposed constitution is adopted during a referendum early next month.

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Academic researchers and conflict specialists are meeting in Nairobi to discuss how to prevent violence over the August 4 vote. Kenya votes on a new constitution next month.

The draft has two controversial clauses one that allows abortion in life threatening pregnancies and a second one recognizing Muslim courts used to resolve family disputes.

While holding the vote risks violence, political scientist Duncan Okello said Thursday that delaying the referendum could result in even more bloodshed.

More than 1,000 people were killed in postelection violence after Kenya's 2007 presidential vote.