Lamu County Commissioner Macharia Irungu has urged politicians to conduct peaceful campaigns and desist from stirring ethnic and religious tensions ahead of the August 9 polls.
Speaking to KNA at the Mokowe county headquarters, Irungu stated that security agencies were on the lookout for wayward politicians who may attempt to sway elections their way of using incitement remarks to stir up their respective voting blocks.
The county Commisioner further stated that those found culpable of making divisive or incitement remarks, whether through their active campaigns or through social media, risk prosecution, hence may lose their place on the ballot.
“Security agencies together with the IEBC and the NCIC are keeping a close eye on political events especially during this campaign period to ensure that no citizen loses life because of mere politics,” Irungu stated.
He reiterated that no politician will be spared if found liable, adding that all electoral participants have been sensitized by the IEBC and the county security team on how to conduct credible campaigns.
He also assured Lamu residents of adequate security before and beyond the August polls, while reiterating that security agencies are open to working with members of the public to ensure peace across the country.
“The county security team would also like to assure the electoral candidates of adequate security as they conduct their campaigns,” he stated.
Meanwhile, the national government will provide security in all rallies to be conducted in Lamu and particularly for female aspirants to ensure their safety, while conducting campaigns.
On his part, Lamu County Governor Fahim Twaha who is defending his seat on a Jubilee ticket also called on all politicians to uphold peace.
“The cosmopolitan Lamu is currently growing in stature and all politicians should be careful when pitching their manifestos during campaigns,” he said.
The same sentiments were echoed by Lamu West constituency and United Democratic Alliance (UDA) candidate Rishad Amana, who stated that this time around politicians should shun incitement.
“The county is in dire need of politicians who will preach and practice social cohesion among communities, regardless of their religious or ethnic backgrounds,” he said.
On her part, the first Lamu county female gubernatorial candidate Umra Omar campaigning in Mpeketoni Sunday evening called on residents to only vote for politicians who have the people’s interest at heart.
She further rooted for leaders whose aim was to bring together the various communities living in the county.
By Amenya Ochieng
