The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has urged Kenyans to uphold peace during and after the August 9 general election.
IEBC in partnership with the Women Mediators Network Kenya (WMN-K) and National Mediation Peace Team (NMPT) stressed on the importance of peace during this electioneering period at a prayer meeting held at Bomas of Kenya grounds.
Speaking at the event IEBC, Chairman Wafula Chebukati assured Kenyans that the Commission is working to ensure delivery of free and fair results during the upcoming election, adding that the Commission is in final stages of logistical issues and training of voter officials.
“IEBC has partnered with stakeholders and religious community to ensure it delivers free, fair and credible elections,” stated Chebukati.
United Nations (UN) Resident Coordinator Dr. Stephen Jackson observed that significant progress has been made by Kenya towards peaceful means of dispute resolution in addressing issues that will come up after elections.
“Peace and stability requires concerted and persistent efforts of all parts of a society anywhere in the world,” added Jackson.
He commended Kenya for being in forefront in fostering regional peace and stability throughout the years in mediation missions in Sudan, Somalia, Ethiopia and Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
“I am confident that the people of Kenya will not only exercise their democratic right but will also exercise peace,” added Jackson.
In his address, the Archbishop of Anglican Church of Kenya, Jackson Ole Sapit urged Kenyans to trust that the IEBC team will act professionally and in accordance with the law of the land to deliver the 2022 election.
“We have no doubt that Kenyans will safeguard peace for ourselves and for our children. This is the reason we are calling upon all Kenyans to re-commit to peace,” said Ole Sapit.
The Archbishop lauded Kenyans for demonstrating patriotism by registering themselves as voters despite the challenges of Covid-19 and high cost of living.
By Jedida Barasa and Bernadette
