Security personnel have been deployed in all the 555 polling centres in Elgeyo Marakwet County as preparations for the coming general elections on August 9 get to top gear.
The county police commander Francis Nguli said during the voting, only those accredited by the IEBC complete with badges will be allowed at polling centres.
Speaking during a workshop by the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC), the commander called on residents to vote and go home saying the police will not allow any groupings near the polling centres.
He added that the county had established command centres in all the four sub counties in Marakwet West, Marakwet East, Keiyo North and Keiyo South with another one at the county headquarters complete with hotlines which will be working for 24 hours.
“Any member of the public can call the following numbers 0742 812034 (County headquarters), 0798 686580 (Marakwet West), 0114 713810 (Marakwet East), 0111 217124 (Keiyo North) and 0111 534335 (Keiyo South).
He said all security personnel will work under the National Police Service but called on wananchi to exercise caution and patience as they prepare to vote on the voting day.
The area DCIO Appolo Munga warned social media users that the security personnel were keenly watching the social media platforms and stern action will be taken against anyone spreading hate and incitement.
The county commissioner John Korir said while the government will do all within its power to ensure there is peace, residents also have a responsibility to maintain law and order.
The county returning officer Charles Mutai said that part of the election materials has already arrived while voter education and staff training were going on.
Stakeholders in attendance called on the government to continue with the curfew which is currently in force in Kerio Valley saying the measure has ensured peace and tranquility.
Noting that all security personnel will be involved in the elections, the stakeholders also called on the Kenya Forest Service to be vigilant saying some unscrupulous people may take advantage of the elections to invade forests.
By Alice Wanjiru
