Angry voters block the Meru-Nairobi highway to protest the late arrival
of voting material during the Jubilee Party primaries on April 21, 2017.
In most parts of Kenya, political parties' scheduled primaries failed
to take off due to among others delays in delivery of ballot papers.
PHOTO | PHOEBE OKALL | NMG
By FRED OLUOCH
In Summary
Foreign envoys have expressed concern that the recent
shambolic political party primaries in Kenya could be a pointer to
possible organisational challenges during the August 8 General Election.
In a joint statement signed by the heads of missions from the
United States, European Union, Nordic countries and Australia, the
diplomats said that the process which was marred by irregularities in
many of the polling centres was a disappointment to many Kenyans who had
turnout in large numbers to exercise their democratic rights.
“Kenyans from all sides also rightfully expressed frustration
with the serious organisational challenges and allegations of
improprieties that affected many of the polls. Even more troubling were
the unacceptable acts of violence and intimidation during the process,”
reads part of the statement.
The envoys said the primaries have highlighted the importance of
a free, fair, credible, and peaceful General Election, and supported
calls by a section leaders for the losers to accept defeat as a sign of
mature democracy.
While emphasising that they remain neutral in the Kenyan
elections, they called on all Kenyans, especially politicians, to
embrace peace and reject any incitement to violence.
“In August, Kenya has an opportunity to reaffirm its democracy
to Africa and the entire world. We stand with all Kenyans who seek free,
fair, credible, and peaceful elections,” they said.
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), the
envoys said, has a great responsibility in conducting the upcoming
General Election and pledged to support the electoral body in the task
ahead.
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