Coast Regional Commissioner John Elungata has called on security agents across the region to stay vigilant following increased political campaigns and activity ahead of the August 9th polls.
Speaking in Minjilla town in Tana River County today during a security meeting comprising of regional security heads, Lamu and Tana River County security and national government public administration officials, the regional boss said that the security agents will be extra vigilant during and beyond the campaign period to curb any threat of violence.
“It is during the political campaign period that other conflict related issues crop up such as pastoralist-farmer conflicts, hate speech incidences and intercommunity conflicts,” he said, noting that the national government is keen to ensure that calm prevails throughout the electioneering period.
He stated that all eyes were on security agencies especially in Tana River County which he noted often has a spike in intercommunity conflicts during the election period.
Elungata further revealed that politicians have already been advised on how they should handle themselves during this election period, noting that they are also to maintain peace beyond the electioneering period regardless of the outcome of the election.
“Youths should avoid being used by politicians especially in the hotspot areas where conflicts usually arise,” the Regional Commissioner said mentioning groups such as Mombasa Republican Council and Miticharaka youth gangs that were put on notice against causing conflicts.
The Coast Regional Commissioner further called on the security agents to be vigilant with social media postings noting that there is likely to be an increase of misinformation and disinformation stories aimed at tilting voter preferences.
He however stated that the national government will continue to support its national administration officers and security agents with resources aimed at ensuring that they work within their various stations.
Elungata further assured members of the public that the national government had deployed adequate security personnel ahead of the August polls to ensure a smooth transition to administration.
By Amenya Ochieng
